EU and UNDP to support Donetsk Oblast under second phase of EU4Recovery

On 11 May, representatives of the European Union and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reaffirmed their support for Donetsk Oblast under the recently launched second phase of the flagship EU4Recovery partnership. 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 at a meeting with the leadership of Donetsk Oblast and representatives of the security and emergency response sectors, held in Kramatorsk, Donetsk Oblast.

“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,” UNDP Ukraine said in a press release.

The support package will include professional capacity development, specialised training programmes, and material assistance tailored to identified operational needs. 

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.”

The European Union and the United Nations Development Programme launched the EU4Recovery programme 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 €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.

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Press release