On October 19, the Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olga Stefanishyna held a meeting with the European Commissioner for Crisis Management, in charge of European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Janez Lenarčič.

The parties discussed the priority humanitarian needs of Ukraine in the context of increased attacks by russia on residential areas and energy infrastructure of Ukraine, as well as needs during the heating period and subsequent de-occupation of the territories. Commissioner Janez Lenarčič informed about the immediate deployment of temporary winter shelters in Bucha, Kharkiv and Rivne.

"Critically important today is the help of partners in the restoration of generating capacities and networks, support in the winter period. Ukrainian emergency services are doing the impossible to preserve electricity and heat in the homes of Ukrainians, rapid infrastructure repairs are underway," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Janez Lenarčič noted that Ukraine and the EU had managed to achieve significant results within the framework of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. In particular, thanks to this Mechanism, it was possible to mobilize more than 70,000 tonnes of humanitarian aid for Ukraine.

"The basic needs today are the restoration of the de-occupied territories, as well as the destruction that russia is causing in other territories of Ukraine. It is vital to attract help to restore life in the de-occupied territories, which includes demining, restoration of gas, water and electricity supply, as well as provision of basic needs for food and drinking water," stressed Olha Stefanishyna.

The European Commissioner also informed that the EU would allocate an additional EUR 175 million for humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable groups of Ukrainians (of which EUR 150 million are earmarked for activities in Ukraine, and EUR 25 million - for Moldova). The main priority is to provide winter shelter in view of the expected frosts. Other priorities include supporting the education process in wartime, as well as health and defense systems.

Among other things, Olha Stefanishyna drew attention to the critical risks that russia creates for the operation of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant.