“I am grateful for the consistent assistance provided by the WHO team to Ukrainians affected by Russia’s ongoing armed aggression, particularly in frontline areas. Russia, in gross violation of international humanitarian law, systematically attacks critical and civilian infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, energy infrastructure, social protection facilities and humanitarian warehouses. Ensuring access to essential healthcare, medicines and other basic services is of paramount importance for millions of Ukrainians,” Deputy Minister Mariana Betsa emphasized.

The Deputy Minister also called on WHO to focus its efforts on ensuring that Ukrainian healthcare facilities are adequately prepared for the winter period. The Ukrainian side expects continued practical support from WHO, including assistance with the provision and installation of essential backup power-generation equipment, as well as the delivery of medical equipment and medicines.

Following the meeting, the sides agreed to continue efforts to strengthen WHO’s presence and operational capacity in Ukraine and to coordinate joint work with donors.