Ireland has announced a new funding package of €35.4 million to support humanitarian and peace initiatives in Ukraine, reinforcing its commitment to stand with the country as it continues to resist Russia’s invasion. The announcement was made by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris TD and Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Neale Richmond TD ahead of a meeting with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at the UN High-Level Week in New York.
The funding will back a range of critical programmes across Ukraine and neighboring regions, including those operated by UN agencies, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Of this amount, €23.5 million will directly address urgent humanitarian needs, while €9 million will go toward stabilisation and peace-building efforts through partners such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems.
A key feature of the package is €1 million ring-fenced for the World Food Programme’s school feeding initiative, which will provide meals to 250,000 children living in frontline areas, ensuring that education and nutrition remain accessible despite ongoing conflict. An additional €2 million will support UNICEF and World Bank programmes in neighboring Moldova to aid those affected by the war.
Tánaiste Simon Harris underscored Ireland’s unwavering support, stating, “Russia’s aggression against Ukraine stands in complete violation of international law. This funding is a further demonstration of Ireland’s solidarity as Ukraine continues to defend itself against this brutal invasion.”
Minister Neale Richmond echoed this message, emphasizing that High-Level Week provides an opportunity to rally global partners and increase pressure on Russia. “Russia must cease its aggression, and Ukraine must be provided with strong and enduring guarantees for its future security,” he said.
This latest funding marks another step in Ireland’s sustained humanitarian and diplomatic efforts to support Ukraine, helping to deliver food, shelter, healthcare, and vital human rights protections to those impacted by the ongoing war.
