Humanitarian community launches the Winter Response Plan to help 2.1 million people across Ukraine

As Ukraine prepares for another winter amid the ongoing war, humanitarian organizations today launched the 2026–2027 Winter Response Plan, appealing for US$358.4 million to support 2.1 million people.

Intensified hostilities, repeated displacement and systematic attacks on critical energy infrastructure exacerbate vulnerabilities, particularly for people living in front-line areas. Building on lessons learned from last winter, the Plan takes into account the consequences of attacks on energy infrastructure, which disrupted electricity, heating and water services and affected millions of people across Ukraine, in areas close to the front line and urban centres.

Recognizing the leading role of the Government of Ukraine in addressing winter-related needs, the Plan aims to complement such efforts, focusing on the most vulnerable people. Between October 2026 and March 2027, the humanitarian community aims to provide heating assistance, shelter repairs, health care,  protection, food and cash assistance.

"Preparing for winter cannot begin when the first snow falls—it must begin now," said the Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine, Matthias Schmale. "Last winter showed us that attacks on energy can leave families without heating, electricity and water for days—and sometimes weeks—during freezing temperatures. Humanitarian organizations are preparing now so we can reach people before winter arrives."

"I am grateful to the donors who have already stepped forward with early contributions," he added. "Their support is enabling humanitarian partners to prepare in advance. The Winter Response Plan outlines the priorities and resources needed for a timely response, but additional funding will be essential to ensure that the most vulnerable people across Ukraine receive the assistance they need before and throughout the hard winter months."

The Winter Response Plan is consistent with the priorities set out in the 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, targeting the most vulnerable people with a particular focus on people living closest to the front line, newly displaced and evacuated people, those affected by attacks on civilian infrastructure and vulnerable groups at heightened risk of being left behind.

The Ukraine Humanitarian Fund has launched a US$50 million allocation to complement bilateral donor support and help address critical funding gaps as needs evolve.

"People in Ukraine have already endured more than anyone should have to," Mr. Schmale said. "Endurance alone cannot heat a home, restore electricity or repair the damage caused by the ongoing war. Together, we can help ensure that the people most affected have the practical support they need to get through another winter safely and with dignity."

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Resources:

The 2026-2027 Winter Response Plan (digital version), Eng, Ukr

The 2026-2027 Winter Response Plan (pdf), Eng, Ukr