"There are already more than 61,000 shelters in operation in Ukraine," said Vygivsky
There are more than 61,000 civil defense shelters in operation in Ukraine, and the international Shelter Coalition is already funding the construction and modernization of protective infrastructure in frontline regions.
According to the Minister of Internal Affairs, expanding the network of civil defense shelters remains one of the state’s key priorities.
He reported that more than 61,000 shelters are already operational in Ukraine, and the international Shelter Coalition is helping to fund the construction of new shelters and the modernization of existing ones in regions most affected by Russian shelling.
Ivan Vyhovskyi called on Ukrainian diplomats to help expand the Shelter Coalition and attract new international partners for the further development of the civil protection system.
The minister also emphasized that the contamination of territories with explosive ordnance remains a serious problem for Ukraine.
According to him, units of the State Emergency Service and the National Police continue to clear de-occupied and frontline territories using:
- robotic equipment;
- unmanned aerial vehicles;
- mechanized demining systems.
According to Ivan Vygivsky, Ukraine is actively expanding international cooperation in the field of humanitarian demining.
This includes, in particular:
- training Ukrainian deminers;
- attracting international technical assistance;
- the implementation of modern technologies that will accelerate the clearance of mines and unexploded ordnance from territories.
The minister emphasized that the development of protective infrastructure and effective humanitarian demining remain important components of public safety amid a full-scale war.
Interior Minister Ivan Vyhovskyi made these remarks during the annual meeting of heads of Ukraine’s diplomatic missions abroad.
Ukrainians have the right to take shelter with their pets during an air raid alert; however, pet owners are required to follow rules that ensure safety for both their pets and other people.
On the night of July 30, during a massive Russian missile attack, Kyiv residents complained that they were unable to access shelters at metro stations. According to eyewitnesses, some entrances were closed before the air raid alert was announced, and at certain stations, people were turned away due to overcrowding.
In Mykolaiv, plans are in place to organize the new school year with the security situation in mind. Due to constant Russian attacks, classes may be held entirely in shelters, with instruction taking place in two shifts, and the start of classes may be moved to 7:30 a.m.
