The Sumy region of northeastern Ukraine has suffered greatly since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Communities there have faced near-constant shelling and drone attacks, leaving vital infrastructure damaged or destroyed. Schools, power grids and transportation systems have been severely affected, cutting off access to education, healthcare and emergency services.

In response, UNOPS is working with KOICA and national authorities to restore public services and bolster emergency response in high-risk areas. The $10 million project, funded by KOICA, includes the delivery of 60 buses to support transport needs in 16 communities across the Sumy region. These buses are a critical lifeline enabling safe civilian evacuations and the continuation of education and healthcare under wartime conditions.

UNOPS is also providing 100 power generators to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU), including more than 70 trailer-mounted units for field use and over 20 high-capacity generators for key logistics hubs. These resources ensure that emergency operations can continue even if local power infrastructure is damaged.

“The buses will help communities that live under the daily threat of shelling. This is practical and timely assistance. It’s important for us to know that we are not alone. The world sees, hears, and supports Sumy,” said Oleh Klymenko, Head of the Sumy Regional Administration.

The project is already making a difference – improving community mobility and enabling access to essential services. With each delivery, local authorities will be better prepared to respond to emergencies and safeguard civilians.

“By restoring access to public services, enabling civilian evacuations from frontline locations and supporting national emergency systems, UNOPS and KOICA are helping Ukraine’s most vulnerable communities remain resilient in the face of ongoing threats,” said Marysia Zapasnik, Director a.i., UNOPS Ukraine Multi-Country Office.