The package is aimed at ensuring the continuity of essential services such as schools, hospitals, transport, water supply, and businesses in Ukraine.
Key Details of the Aid Package:
Total Amount: SEK 650 million ($61.6 million)
Purpose: To support Ukraine's energy supply and ensure the functioning of essential social services amid ongoing conflicts and attacks on infrastructure.
Allocation:
- SEK 500 million ($47.4 million) will be provided through the "Energy Support Fund of Ukraine" organized by the Energy Community.
- SEK 150 million ($14.2 million) will be administered through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Swedish Government's Statement:
"The new energy support will help ensure Ukraine's energy supply so that basic social services such as schools, hospitals, transport, water supply, and businesses can continue to function," stated the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Sweden's Commitment to Ukraine:
Largest Bilateral Recipient: Ukraine is currently the largest bilateral recipient of Swedish aid.
Funding and Management: The support for energy infrastructure is financed from Sweden's aid budget and managed on behalf of the government.
Official Remarks:
- Johan Forssell, Minister of Aid and Foreign Trade of Sweden:
- Emphasized the long-term and powerful nature of Sweden's support for Ukraine.
- Highlighted the increasing attacks by Russia on Ukraine's energy system aimed at disabling vital public infrastructure.
- Reiterated the importance of increasing support for the Ukrainian energy sector to enhance resilience.
This aid package underscores Sweden's continued commitment to supporting Ukraine's energy infrastructure and helping maintain essential services in the face of ongoing challenges.
