“Kharkiv occupies a special place in our efforts to support the people of Ukraine. I have seen firsthand the impact of the ongoing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and the consequences for millions of citizens. But I have also seen tireless reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts, which is further evidence of the strength and resilience of the government of Ukraine and its people,” he said.
Kharkiv is still home to some 200,000 displaced people. The situation there escalated in May when a new ground offensive by Russian forces forced more than 10,000 people in frontline communities to evacuate to the city of Kharkiv.
As head of the UN refugee agency, UN refugee agencyMr Grandi calls for greater international support to “address the needs and demonstrate our continued solidarity with the Ukrainian people.”
Winter response plan
UNHCR is concerned that the upcoming winter conditions in Kharkiv could make the situation even more difficult, forcing many people to seek protection elsewhere.
To prevent this, UNHCR has launched a comprehensive winter response plan as part of a broader UN appeal to give people cash, help them repair or insulate their homes before the cold hits, and pay energy bills.
As an initial contribution, Mr. Grandi, in partnership with the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, donated 10 generators to provide alternative energy sources and keep critical services operational.
“We are grateful to UNHCR for providing generators to seven communities in the Kharkiv region. This equipment is intended for critical infrastructure facilities in cities and towns and will be of great importance in the event of power outages,” said Oleh Syniehubov, head of the Kharkiv region state administration.
“This support will help us resist Russian terrorist attacks on our energy infrastructure. Such assistance will strengthen our energy system to better prepare for the autumn and winter period and to survive the heating season,” added Deputy Energy Minister of Ukraine Svitlana Hrynchuk.
Digital innovation ‘Ukraine is home’
The innovative ‘Ukraine is home’ A digital information platform was also officially launched by the UNHCR on Thursday.
It aims to help Ukrainian refugees and displaced people make informed decisions about possible return – or continued residence in host communities – by providing timely and impartial information to millions of people displaced by war.
“We must continue to support refugees from Ukraine, but we must also be ready to help them return to their homes, when they feel it is safe and the time is right to do so,” Mr Grandi stressed.
