UN: Ukraine to face 'worst winter' since independence

On the eve of the "worst winter since independence" Ukraine urgently needs additional funds to prepare for the winter season.

According to Anadolu Agency, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in its Winter Preparation Plan for Ukraine for 2022-2023.

According to OCHA estimates, 15.7 million Ukrainians are currently in need of humanitarian assistance, including 7.1 million internally displaced persons living both in private homes and in collective centers. Many of these buildings are not equipped to withstand the harsh cold. As winter temperatures in some parts of the country are predicted to drop to -20 degrees Celsius, millions of people living without adequate insulation and heating will suffer serious consequences.

The OCHA plan includes measures to protect the most vulnerable people. It requires $226 million to implement. This amount will go toward the emergency purchase and distribution of basic necessities, as well as funding for repairs.

Warming the centers where many IDPs live will cost $80 million. OCHA will help 15,000 Ukrainian families living in rural areas repair livestock facilities. Seven million dollars will be spent to repair heating and hot water systems.

"Advance planning is essential to ensure safe and dignified living conditions," the text of the Plan reads.

Winterization activities are led by the government of Ukraine in cooperation with the United Nations and the organization's humanitarian partners.

The action plan and timely funding will save many lives.