Rebuilding Ukraine: UK to allocate £54 mln to Ukraine for energy and humanitarian aid
Photo: news.nominal.com.ua
During his first visit to Kyiv in this role, UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed unwavering support for Ukraine and announced the allocation of 54 million British pounds (71.3 million US dollars) to strengthen the country's resilience ahead of winter.
The UK government website reported, according to Rubryka, that authorities will direct funds toward energy and humanitarian aid to support Ukrainians during the winter, as Russia continues to leave Ukrainian communities without electricity.
During his visit, Ed Miliband emphasized the permanence of London's position regarding support for Ukraine. He stated that the UK will not cease assistance until Russia chooses the path of peace.
"We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine not only because it is the front line of Europe and NATO's security, but also because it is at the center of the global struggle to uphold principles of justice and the rule of law. My message to Putin is clear: you will not outlast us. Until you choose the path of peace, the UK will not stop supporting Ukraine, our values, and our national security. You will continue to remain an outcast," Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband stated.
Of the total assistance package, 20 million British pounds (26.4 million US dollars) is earmarked to strengthen Ukraine's energy security. The funding aims to help maintain the power system's operations and secure alternative power sources in the event of blackouts. Specifically:
- The funds will finance teams to conduct emergency repairs to the Ukrainian power grid following Russian strikes. The package also provides for the purchase of backup generators and solar power stations for use during power outages.
- Another funding direction will focus on implementing new technologies designed to help Ukraine diversify its energy sources.
The UK will allocate the remaining portion of the package—34 million British pounds (44.9 million US dollars)—to supply heating and water to Ukrainian families ahead of winter.
Additionally, authorities will use the funds to provide direct cash assistance to the population. They will deliver it in cooperation with the government of Ukraine and humanitarian partners working on the ground.
Organizations involved in this cooperation include:
- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- The Ukrainian Red Cross Society
Background
It was also reported that the UK announced a new sanction package against Russia targeting its shadow fleet, oil companies, financial networks, and suppliers of goods for the military industry.
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