Marking the fourth anniversary of the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine, where the Order of Malta has been active in recent years, carrying out a large-scale humanitarian operation to support the population.

Attacks on energy infrastructure are making this winter even harsher for those now enduring their fifth cold season since the war began. Currently, approximately one million residents of Kyiv are without heating or electricity, as temperatures drop to –25°C (–13°F).

In this context, the Order of Malta has launched a cross-border humanitarian initiative to support families affected by recent attacks on energy infrastructure in Kyiv. The initiative was promoted by the relief organization of the Polish Association of the Order of Malta, in close cooperation with the relief organization of the Order of Malta in Ukraine and Ordre de Malte France.

It is also supported by the Order of Malta Donors for Projects Foundation, which funds international projects and develops, supports and monitors activities worldwide.

As part of this emergency response, portable heating and cooking equipment is being distributed in Kyiv to assist approximately 2,500 families. The supplies include 2,448 portable gas stoves, 19,656 fuel cartridges, 2,500 hot water bottles, and 14,400 chemical foot warmers.

This first shipment has arrived at the Order of Malta warehousing facility in Ivano-Frankivsk (Ukraine). There, the supplies are being repackaged for onward distribution to an estimated 8,000–10,000 adults and children in the worst affected areas of Kyiv.

In parallel, an additional shipment — consisting of 100 cast-iron wood-burning stoves and several hundred kilograms of warm clothing — has already arrived in Kyiv. Distribution is being carried out with the assistance of Caritas Ukraine.

Due to the limited availability of gas cartridges on the Ukrainian market, an additional truckload of 48,300 has left Warsaw and is ensuring continuity of support.

These simple yet essential items can make a significant difference for adults, children, and elderly people enduring freezing temperatures and prolonged power outages. Currently, total donations are approaching 350,000 €.