Frontline and border communities in the Kharkiv region face daily problems with security, restoration of infrastructure, and the stability of basic services. These issues were discussed during a visit to the Kharkiv region by Oleksii Kuleba, Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration – Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine.

‘The conversation focused on the issues that people are most concerned about right now, such as security, the restoration of critical infrastructure, and activities of business and social sector, as well as preparations for the heating season,’ said Oleksii Kuleba.

New approaches – initiated by the President

Oleksii Kuleba announced a long-term programme to support frontline regions, initiated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The programme is intended to provide an effective means of building resilience among those who continue to live and work under fire.

Budget support for 2025

‘The Government has already allocated over UAH 6 billion to the Kharkiv region for 2025,’ said Oleksii Kuleba.

These funds will be used to:

• support communities;
• modernise infrastructure;
• renew the housing stock.

In particular, almost UAH 600 million of additional subsidies have been allocated for the construction of shelters, the purchase of equipment, emergency repairs, and the stabilisation of critical infrastructure.

Infrastructure projects: Ukraine Recovery III

Joint projects worth UAH 522 million are being implemented with communities, including:

• creating a backup power supply for communities;
• modernising water supply and sewerage systems.

These projects ensure that critical systems continue to operate stably in the event of interruptions or damage.

The eRestoration programme – an example of effectiveness

The Kharkiv region is achieving good results:

• 34,766 families have received compensation totalling UAH 3.6 billion for damaged housing;
• 7,428 families have received certificates for destroyed housing worth UAH 9.8 billion.

Speeding up compensation for destroyed housing

‘The Government has updated the mechanism for registering damaged housing. Now, there is no need to wait for a commission in areas where hostilities are ongoing. Instead, a remote examination can be conducted and compensation received,’ said Oleksii Kuleba.

Additionally, communities have been able to carry out essential procedures simultaneously, accelerating the work of commissions and payments to residents.

Other areas the Government is working on:

• development of municipal housing for IDPs;
• ensuring energy independence of localities;
• support for evacuation routes and military logistics.