Attended by members of the diplomatic community, the gathering brought together organisations including Hungarian Interchurch Aid, UNHCR, IOM, Carpathian Dragon Feeder Foundation and Menedék Association to assess the continuing impact of the conflict on civilians.

The event was opened by Justin McKenzie Smith, British Ambassador to Hungary and Fedir Sándor, Ambassador of Ukraine, who reaffirmed their countries’ solidarity with the Ukrainian people.

In his remarks, the British Ambassador noted that the UK’s commitment to Ukraine is anchored not only in today’s urgent humanitarian needs, but also in the landmark 100 Year Partnership that the two countries signed last year and stressed the importance of continued international support for Ukraine as the humanitarian situation remains critical.

The Ukrainian Ambassador expressed gratitude to the British Embassy and all those present for their consolidated support in addressing Ukraine’ humanitarian needs. This support holds special significance considering the ongoing terror inflicted by Russia on the civilian population.

Four years into Russia’s full-scale invasion, humanitarian needs in Ukraine remain severe. An estimated 10.8 million people require assistance, with the situation most critical in areas facing ongoing shelling, winter disruption, and damage to power, heating and water systems.

As attacks on critical civilian infrastructure intensified over winter 2025–26, humanitarian organisations worked to deliver urgent support, including power, heating, water, and winterisation supplies, to vulnerable groups such as elderly people, people with disabilities, children, and newly displaced families.

Speakers emphasised the critical role of Hungarian, Ukrainian, and international humanitarian organisations in delivering locally informed, community led support, particularly for groups facing heightened protection risks.

The event concluded with a roundtable discussion focusing on future needs, cooperation among partners, and lessons learned for effective humanitarian action.
 

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