The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) pledged over $1 billion in new assistance to Ukraine, encompassing energy support, humanitarian aid, and educational resources, USAID Administrator Samantha Power announced these commitments during her visit to Kyiv on 2 October.

Russian attacks have severely damaged Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, particularly targeting power grids, water supplies, and transportation networks. This systematic destruction led to widespread blackouts, limited access to clean water, and hindered civilian mobility, causing significant economic disruption and humanitarian challenges across the country.

According to Radio Liberty, Power revealed that USAID is allocating $825 million to bolster Ukraine’s energy system this winter, nearly doubling last year’s investment.

“As winter approaches, Putin is again attacking energy infrastructure, hoping to use cold weather as a weapon against the Ukrainian people,” Power said.

She explained that these funds will support repair work, capacity building, and protection of critical infrastructure.

USAID is also launching a five-year rehabilitation program called “Rehab for You” with a $13 million budget. Power said that over 250,000 people in Ukraine currently require rehabilitation support. The program aims to help Ukrainians recover from injuries and adapt to new limitations.

USAID is also providing $237 million in humanitarian aid through USAID and the US State Department. According to Power, this funding will supply essential items such as food, shelter, and medical services for Ukrainians within the country and those displaced abroad. It will also help households prepare for the cold weather with thermal blankets, bedding, and winter clothing.

The agency’s support extends to Ukraine’s education sector. Power reported that USAID has funded the printing of 3.2 million textbooks for primary school students. According to the Ministry of Education, these 3.2 million new textbooks will now be used by 20% of all schoolchildren in Ukraine.

Read also:

• Germany pledges more military and energy aid for Ukraine at UN Assembly
• Zelenskyy honors Japanese PM Kishida, discusses energy support and sanctions
• EU’s Borrell urges increased aid to protect Ukraine’s energy infrastructure from Russian attacks