© depositphotos/Ale_Mi Special attention will be paid to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, people with disabilities and displaced families living in collective centers.
The European Commission is providing an additional €40 million in humanitarian funding to help Ukrainians survive the fourth winter of the war of Russian aggression. This new support will strengthen the country’s winter preparedness and protect civilians from extreme cold.
The EC announced this on its official website on September 12.
EU humanitarian partners will deliver shelter materials, repair damaged houses and centres for displaced persons, and improve access to water, sanitation and heating. Funding will include cash assistance, solid fuel, heating appliances and insulation materials, as well as emergency heating points. Particular attention will be paid to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, people with disabilities and displaced families living in collective centres.
The EU has deployed over 156,000 tonnes of life-saving supplies through the Civil Protection Mechanism in response to the widespread destruction of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This support includes energy equipment, including 9,342 generators, 6,917 transformers and millions of energy-saving LED lamps. In parallel, the EU and its Member States have mobilised over €4.2 billion in humanitarian aid for Ukraine and neighbouring countries. The EU has also successfully coordinated the medical evacuation of over 4,500 patients from Ukraine to hospitals in 22 European countries for treatment.
Commenting on the European Commission’s decision, Haja Labib, Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, noted:
“Winter brings new challenges for millions of Ukrainians already suffering from the consequences of Russia’s war. We must remain united in solidarity, strengthen our collective humanitarian response and protect the most vulnerable in the cold months ahead. With this additional €40 million, we reaffirm our commitment to the people of Ukraine – with solidarity, humanity and determination.”
As a reminder, the European Union is considering creating a €100 billion ($117 billion) fund to support Ukraine, as Russia shows no intention of stopping the war. This move would further shift support for Ukraine to Europe, rather than the United States.