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Vital support in Times of War

09/23/2024

After the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, swift humanitarian assistance to the citizens of the Ukrainian city of Kherson ensured that their basic needs were met. 

At dawn on 6 June 2023, the citizens of the Kherson region in Southern Ukraine awoke to horrendous news: Russian forces had destroyed the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Station and the adjacent dam, causing 18 cubic kilometers of the upper reservoir to flood dozens of settlements along the Dnipro. 

The Kherson Region, partially liberated by Ukrainian forces in autumn of 2022, suffered the consequences of this natural disaster, with hundreds of houses damaged and basic services in many towns and settlements destroyed. Ukrainian rescuers were quick to come to the aid of those in need.

The German Federal Foreign Office (FFO), through the Integrated Response Hub for Ukraine (IRHU), and the German Agency for Technical Relief (THW) quickly provided technical assistance, material support (drip filters, generators and shelter items) and a water treatment plant to the city. The primary objective was to enable Ukrainian institutions on the ground to maintain basic services, such as the water supply, and to ensure people’s safety from the floods.

Highlights

  • Amidst natural disaster caused by the Russian war of aggression, up to 60.000 citizens were provided with shelter and drinking water.

  • Technical equipment and supplies to clean up affected areas were provided within days after the catastrophe.

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A big truck bringing parts to fix the broken dam.
Copyright: German Federal Foreign Office
Staff members carrying a water tank out of storage.
Copyright: German Federal Foreign Office
A truck with humanitarian supplies.
Copyright: German Federal Foreign Office

The IRHU is part of the Stabilisation Platform, contributing to the FFO’s support of Ukraine. Its flexible approach allows for immediate action meeting urgent demands. The THW supports state institutions and local authorities, particularly in liberated/frontline areas, with relief supplies and contributes to the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations.