On July 18, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba held talks at the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, to discuss strengthening cooperation between Ukraine and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).
The Minister positively noted the work of UNHCR in Ukraine, particularly the provision of a new aid package to prepare for the winter season, and emphasized the importance of enhancing humanitarian response to support Ukrainians affected by Russian aggression. He expressed gratitude to UNHCR for its ongoing support for Ukrainians and the state of Ukraine.
Following the meeting, the parties announced the joint launch of the online platform "Ukraine – Home," which will serve as a crucial tool to support efforts for the recovery and rebuilding of Ukraine, as well as the return of Ukrainians. The platform will provide displaced individuals and families with verified and up-to-date information to help them make informed decisions about the possibility of returning from abroad to Ukraine.
"We welcome UNHCR's leadership and coordinating role in providing assistance to Ukrainians both within the country and abroad. As long as Russian aggression continues, our people abroad will continue to need international aid and support," stated Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. "At the same time, we are ready to work together to assist those Ukrainians abroad who are prepared to return home. In this regard, we hope that the 'Ukraine – Home' platform, launched under the auspices of UNHCR, will become one of the important tools. This platform will help people access accurate and current information on all matters related to returning to Ukraine, understand the available opportunities and benefits, and make an informed choice," he added.
The Minister also urged UNHCR to take decisive action to protect Ukrainian children deported to Russia to prevent their illegal adoption and ensure their safe return to Ukraine.
The parties expressed hope for continued partnership in implementing joint projects between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UNHCR to enhance the technical capacity of Ukraine's consular services and support the global Ukrainian community.
