Key facts
- The UK will provide Ukraine with 54 million pounds ($71 million) in humanitarian and energy funding.
- The aid includes 20 million pounds ($26 million) for energy grid repairs and back-up power.
- Another 34 million pounds ($45 million) will support heating and water infrastructure.
- Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced the package during a visit to Kyiv on October 8.
- Kyiv experienced widespread power outages on October 8 due to a Russian attack on energy facilities.
- The UK also imposed 38 new sanctions targeting Russian ships and companies.
The United Kingdom is set to provide Ukraine with 54 million pounds ($71 million) in humanitarian and energy funding as the country braces for its fifth winter of the ongoing conflict with Russia. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced the aid package on October 8 during his first visit to Kyiv in his capacity as Foreign Secretary.
The latest support includes 20 million pounds ($26 million) designated for emergency repairs to Ukraine's energy grids, as well as for back-up generators and solar power sources. An additional 34 million pounds ($45 million) will be invested in "securing heating, and maintaining water infrastructure" to prepare for the colder months.
This announcement follows widespread power outages in Kyiv on October 8, which officials attributed to a Russian attack on a critical energy facility. Residents across Ukraine are anticipating another difficult winter, with further Russian assaults on energy infrastructure expected.
Speaking in Kyiv, Miliband stated that the funding demonstrates the U.K.'s unwavering support for Ukraine, sending a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that "You cannot wait us out." He added, "Until you choose the path of peace, the U.K. will not relent in its support for Ukraine, our values, or our national security. You will remain a pariah."
Earlier on October 8, the U.K. also implemented 38 new sanctions targeting vessels that facilitate Russia's evasion of existing sanctions, along with companies within Moscow's military-industrial complex, energy sector, and cryptocurrency industry. Last month, London committed to providing Ukraine with a 100 million pound ($135 million) air defense package, including funding for Patriot missiles.