In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis precipitated by Russia’s brutal conflict in Ukraine, the United States has unveiled a substantial humanitarian aid package exceeding $206 million. This crucial assistance, revealed by U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken during his visit to Ukraine, comprises more than $54 million from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and over $152 million from the U.S. Department of State.
The unrelenting attacks by the Russian Government on Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure have resulted in over 9,500 fatalities, tragically including more than 550 children, while causing injuries to countless others. The conflict has further displaced millions, with over six million individuals seeking refuge abroad and an additional five million internally displaced within Ukraine.
Furthermore, relentless assaults on infrastructure have exacerbated the humanitarian, environmental, and economic hardships faced by the Ukrainian populace, leading to power shortages, heating deficiencies, and a scarcity of essential utilities.
This additional humanitarian assistance will empower USAID partners to sustain their life-saving endeavors. This includes the provision of versatile financial aid, healthcare services, shelter, and water, sanitation, and hygiene services to millions of vulnerable Ukrainian citizens. Additionally, comprehensive protection measures, encompassing case management and psychosocial support services for the most at-risk populations throughout the nation, will be supported.
Notably, this additional funding encompasses a generous contribution of $25 million to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund (UHF), managed by the United Nations. The UHF operates as a swift and adaptable response mechanism, enabling the United Nations and international and Ukrainian non-governmental organizations, alongside civil society entities, community-based organizations, and volunteer groups on the ground in Ukraine, to deliver life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable communities affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
The United States has consistently extended its support, having provided over $2.8 billion in humanitarian aid since the inception of the conflict, with nearly $2 billion of that sum coming from USAID to bolster the people of Ukraine and those displaced to neighboring nations. The United States remains steadfast in solidarity with the Ukrainian population and all those affected by the unjust war initiated by Russia.
