(ANSA) - ROMA, 18 LUG - The Ambassador of Italy to Ukraine, Carlo Formosa, hosted a meeting between the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, and a group of heads of mission accredited in Kiev: this was announced in a statement by the Italian Embassy in Kiev. On the occasion of his fifth visit to Ukraine since the beginning of the conflict, the High Representative shared an update on the activities of the UNHCR agency, as well as his up-to-date analysis derived from direct observation of the areas most affected by the violence of the Russian armed forces.
The meeting allowed for an in-depth assessment of the ongoing efforts of UNHCR and donor countries, including Italy, to support the resilience of the Ukrainian population ahead of the coming winter, particularly in the face of the energy crisis triggered by the Kremlin's attacks on critical infrastructure, the note added.
The common goal is to create the conditions for as many Ukrainians as possible to continue living in their homes and cities, as well as to implement effective strategies for the reintegration of returning Ukrainians. Ambassador Formosa recalled how Italy has taken in some 200,000 refugees from Ukraine and has allocated EUR 27 million to UNHCR activities in support of the Ukrainian population.
"We will continue with humanitarian support to Ukrainians as long as necessary, both bilaterally and through international organisations, such as UNHCR," the head of mission stressed.
The meeting was attended by the heads of mission of the G7 countries and the European Union, as well as the Holy See, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Spain and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.
Amb. Formosa hosts meeting between Grandees and heads of mission in Kiev
Unhcr High Commissioner reiterated support for Ukrainians