US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announces $186 million in additional aid for Ukrainian refugees

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently announced to provide $186 million in additional financial assistance to support Ukrainian refugees and other displaced people in Ukraine.

“The United States is providing over $186 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support internally displaced persons and the more than three million refugees affected by Russia’s premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified war in Ukraine,” Blinken said.

“This will provide further support for humanitarian organizations responding to the crisis and complement the generosity of the neighboring countries that are welcoming and supporting refugees,” he added.

Blinken stated that the US “commends the hospitality of the neighboring countries that are hosting those fleeing Ukraine.” 

He said that the additional monetary support will be channeled towards providing key necessities for the refugees. The monetary aid will be put to use through humanitarian organizations on the ground. 

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“The additional humanitarian assistance for refugees in Ukraine’s neighboring countries supports the provision of food, safe drinking water, protection, accessible shelter, and emergency health care through the support of our international and non-governmental partners,” Blinken said. 

He added, “This funding will also help victims of this conflict maintain contact with family members who have been separated and promote family reunification when possible.”

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The US Secretary of State also emphasized on the importance of having a safe passage of humanitarian support in war-hit Ukraine. 

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“We call for an immediate end to Russia’s continuing war against Ukraine and for Russia to facilitate unhindered humanitarian access in Ukraine and safe passage for those who seek to leave the cities where they are trapped,” Blinken said.

“Humanitarian aid deliveries must be allowed to continue without interference, and humanitarian workers must have safe passage to deliver aid and assistance to those in need,” he added.