Announcement during visit to Kyiv
On his first visit to Kyiv as Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband announced the allocation of 54 million pounds sterling (about $71.3 million) to support the energy system and assist people ahead of winter. The British government website reported this, citing Ukrinform.
The minister emphasised London’s commitment to sustained support for Ukraine and addressed Russia’s leadership with a clear message. He said: “We stand with the people of Ukraine not only because it is the frontline of Europe’s and NATO’s security, but because it is at the centre of the global struggle to defend the principles of justice and the rule of law. My message to Putin is clear: you will not be able to wait us out. Until you choose the path of peace, the United Kingdom will not stop supporting Ukraine, our values and our national security. You will continue to be a pariah.”
Allocation of funds and first priorities
The total sum of 54 million pounds is divided into two main items. 20 million pounds sterling, equivalent to $26.4 million, will be directed to improving Ukraine’s energy security.
These 20 million will fund crews carrying out emergency repairs to the power system after Russian strikes. Funds are also intended for the purchase of backup generators and solar power plants in case of outages and for new technologies to diversify energy supply sources.
Further steps and who will be affected
A further 34 million pounds sterling, equivalent to $44.9 million, will go towards ensuring heating and water supply for Ukrainian families ahead of winter. Part of this sum will also be used to provide direct cash assistance.
The funds will be distributed in cooperation with the government of Ukraine and humanitarian partners on the ground, in particular with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Ukrainian Red Cross. The decision primarily affects communities that have already experienced power interruptions due to strikes on infrastructure, and is aimed at ensuring heat and water during the heating season.
