Deputy Prime Minister for Ukraine’s Restoration and Minister for Communities and Territories Development Oleksii Kuleba held an online meeting with Verena Hubertz, Germany’s Minister for Housing, Urban Development, and Construction.
The discussion focused on deepening cooperation with the German government in the areas of housing and spatial planning. The Ministry expressed interest in expanding German programs and initiatives in Ukraine that contribute to the comprehensive recovery of cities and towns.
Currently, Ukraine uses several tools to restore its housing stock: the eVidnovlennia compensation mechanism for damaged or destroyed housing, capital reconstruction, and the social housing model — long-term affordable rental. Through eVidnovlennia, more than 140,000 families have already received compensation for damaged or destroyed homes.
“Housing is the foundation for people’s return home, for community life, and for economic recovery. Over 300,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged, 4.6 million people remain internally displaced, and reconstruction needs reach $80 billion. We already have initial results in rebuilding housing, and in 2026 we plan to scale up these efforts, including with the support of the German government,” said Oleksii Kuleba.
A priority in housing recovery is accelerating funding and urban planning procedures. The Ministry has launched a pilot project for spatial planning of both destroyed and new settlements, which has drawn interest from the German side.
In addition, the German government expressed readiness to support reforms in urban development and housing policy, particularly in creating a social housing system. This model envisions housing remaining in community ownership and being rented at a fixed, below-market rate.
Kuleba thanked Germany for its humanitarian and technical assistance, contributions to infrastructure recovery, and support for reform efforts. The parties also discussed preparations for signing a Memorandum of Cooperation in housing, urban planning, architecture, and public space development.
