The European Union is continuing to coordinate emergency humanitarian aid to Kiev through the EU’s Civil Protection Mechanism - more than 2 million essential items have already been delivered - and stands ready to assist neighbouring countries, the European Commission announced on 25 February, the day after Russia invaded Ukraine.
Offers from Croatia, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Spain, Denmark and Sweden - first aid kits, protective clothing, disinfectants, tents, fire-fighting equipment, electricity generators and water pumps - were added to those made immediately by France, Slovenia, Romania, Ireland and Austria last week in response to an urgent request from the Ukrainian authorities (see EUROPE 12895/2).
On the night of 24 February, Moldova also submitted a request to the EU Civil Protection Mechanism for assistance in meeting the needs of refugees.
“We will do everything in our power not to leave Ukraine alone in this moment of great need. We are also working 24/7 in close cooperation with neighbouring countries to help them provide protection for Ukrainians forced to leave their country”, said Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič.
He met with the Romanian, Polish, Hungarian and Moldovan ministers to see how the EU can help them protect Ukrainians fleeing their country, the commission said.
The EU Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) at the European Commission is in constant contact with the Ukrainian authorities and those of neighbouring countries to channel additional assistance.
The ERCC serves as a coordination platform between all EU Member States, the other 6 participating states, the country that requested assistance and civil protection and humanitarian aid experts. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)