KYIV, 23 August 2023 – A new bomb shelter opened today in Kyiv at 3 Lyuteranska Street after extensive reconstruction within the Ukraine Early Recovery Programme. The renovation was an initiative of the European Union and the European Investment Bank, in partnership with the Kyiv City State Administration (KMDA), and with the technical support of the United Nations Development Programme in Ukraine (UNDP).

Kyiv has repeatedly been the target of missile and drone attacks since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Civilian infrastructure has been heavily impacted, resulting in a significant need for additional spaces where residents can seek refuge during incessant air raids.

The shelter spans 120 square meters and is equipped with beds, tables, power outlets, a kitchenette, washbasins, and restrooms. Its electrical, sewage, and water systems were revamped during the renovation. Ventilation, firefighting systems, and necessary furniture and equipment were installed per regulations. The shelter also boasts a backup power supply via a 6 kW inverter battery, a water purification system, potable water tanks, air filters, fire prevention measures, appliances like a TV, refrigerator, and microwave, and a dedicated children's corner. 

Jean-Erik de Zagon, Head of European Investment Bank Representation to Ukraine, said the European Investment Bank, the bank of the European Union, is steadfast in its support for recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine. “Today,” he noted, “as we mark the inauguration of this new bomb shelter, our commitment goes beyond finances – it's about ensuring safety, dignity, and hope for a peaceful future. Collaborating on such vital project as Ukraine Early Recovery Programme underlines our dedication to the well-being and safety of all Ukrainians."

Xavier Camus, acting Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, said the EU is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of the Ukrainian people. “The opening of this new bomb shelter, with the financial support of the EU and EIB, is a testament to our ongoing partnership and solidarity with Ukraine in the face of continued Russian aggression,” he added. 

Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine said his organization is committed to the safety of civilians. “This shelter will provide refuge to temporary displaced persons, children, older persons, and people with disabilities,” he said. “The facility is fully equipped with all the necessary amenities, catering to long stays even when there are overnight alerts.”

The Head of the Pechersk District State Administration in Kyiv City Natalia Kondrashova said the city is actively engaged in opening additional shelters. “Recently, we updated the shelter map and conducted inspections of shelter facilities,” she said. “You can’t have too many shelters, and for that reason, we extend our gratitude to the European Union, European Investment Bank and UNDP for their invaluable assistance.”

Background: UNDP in Ukraine managed the full cycle of the shelter renovation, from design to monitoring repair progress, at a cost of US$125,000. The overall cost of restoring the shelter was US$125,000, and was managed under the Ukraine Early Recovery Programme (UERP), financed through a EUR 200 million multi-sectoral framework loan from the European Investment Bank. The programme also benefits from €7 million in grants from the EU Neighbourhood Investment Platform and €8 million from the EU Delegation Bilateral Funds. More information at https://www.undp.org/ukraine/projects/ukraine-early-recovery-programme.

Media enquiries

Yuliia Samus, Head of Communications at UNDP Ukraine; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org