EU and UNDP to support Donetsk Oblast under Phase II of EU4Recovery

The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are continuing their support for Donetsk Oblast under the second phase of the flagship EU4Recovery partnership. Despite the highly challenging security environment, the partners reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their support for the region. Among the central priorities is the security dimension, with a particular focus on strengthening the operational capacities of the National Police of Ukraine (NPU) and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES).

These priorities were discussed during a meeting with the leadership of Donetsk Oblast and representatives of the security and emergency response sectors.

Across frontline communities, particularly in Donetsk Oblast, these services are playing an indispensable role in responding rapidly to threats stemming from Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Their effectiveness directly influences civilian safety, the continuity of critical infrastructure operations, and the uninterrupted provision of essential public services.

The support package will include professional capacity development, specialized training programmes, as well as technical and material assistance tailored to identified operational needs. This approach is intended to strengthen emergency preparedness and enhance communities’ ability to function amid protracted security pressures. In this context, security is a fundamental precondition for resilience, while effective emergency response mechanisms help to mitigate risks to civilians and sustain critical infrastructure.

Vadym Filashkin, Head of Donetsk Oblast State Administration, emphasized that security is a key prerequisite for the functioning of the region, where, despite constant risks, people are continuing to live. “For Donetsk Oblast, security is the foundation for preserving lives and ensuring that communities can continue, as residents remain and continue to need emergency response and essential services. We are grateful to the EU and UNDP for their support, which will enable us to strengthen the work of emergency services and sustain the resilience of our communities.”

Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, said: “The European Union continues to support frontline communities and war-affected people where needs are greatest, including in Donetsk Oblast, helping them withstand extremely difficult conditions. This support also strengthens local recovery, social cohesion, and opportunities for people to rebuild their lives.”

Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, underscored the importance of the area-based approach to recovery, and highlighted the strength of the long-standing partnership with the EU. “At the heart of our support is a clear understanding of the specific conditions and needs of each region, particularly communities in close proximity to the frontline. This is why we work directly with communities and local institutions to strengthen their capacity to directly respond to ongoing challenges through state structures, maintain essential services, and preserve their viability.”

In recent years, UNDP has implemented a range of initiatives in Donetsk Oblast to strengthen security and support communities. These efforts included providing essential equipment to SES and police units, enhancing the capacities of emergency response services, and supporting coordination mechanisms between local authorities and frontline responders.

A separate component of the new phase of EU4Recovery will focus on continued support for internally displaced people and relocated civic initiatives. This is intended to help preserve the institutional capacity of communities, while reinforcing local identity and social cohesion.

Background

The United Nations Development Programme and European Union launched EU4Recovery in 2022 as a flagship partnership aimed at supporting early recovery, facilitating the return of displaced people, and strengthening the resilience of communities across Ukraine.

In 2026, the EU and UNDP launched the second phase of the programme, with a budget of EUR 50 million for 2026–2028. The new phase will support infrastructure restoration, training and technical assistance designed to strengthen the capacity of local authorities to lead recovery efforts and advance democratic reforms.

Media enquiries

Yuliia Samus, UNDP in Ukraine Head of Communications and Advocacy; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org