The European Commission has earmarked an additional €40 million in humanitarian aid to help Ukrainian civilians endure their fourth winter under Russian attacks, according to an EU press release. The funding will boost winter preparedness and protect people from extreme cold as energy infrastructure remains under constant bombardment. EU partners will focus on shelter materials, home repairs, water access, sanitation, and heating systems.
Russia’s ongoing strikes have devastated Ukraine’s power grid, leaving millions vulnerable to freezing temperatures. The new aid package includes cash assistance, solid fuels, heating equipment, insulation materials, and emergency warming centers. Priority goes to older people, children, disabled individuals, and displaced families living in temporary sites.
The EU has already delivered over 156,000 tonnes of relief supplies through its Civil Protection Mechanism, including 9,342 power generators and 6,917 transformers.
Winter brings new hardships for millions of Ukrainians already suffering from the consequences of Russia’s war,” said Hadja Lahbib, Commissioner for Crisis Management. She emphasized the need for unity and collective humanitarian response during the cold months ahead.
The bloc and member states have mobilized over €4.2 billion in humanitarian aid for Ukraine and neighboring countries since the war began. The EU has also coordinated medical evacuations for more than 4,500 patients to hospitals across 22 European nations.
