The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, in partnership with the European Union (EU), has delivered a motorboat with a trailer and a full set of professional diving equipment to the Main Department of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES) in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. The total value of the equipment exceeds UAH 6.5 million (approximately US$156,000).

This support is aimed at strengthening the operational capacity of rescue units to respond to water-related emergencies, particularly in frontline areas and communities impacted by shelling.

The motorboat will enable quicker deployment for search and rescue operations, allow for the transport of personnel, and facilitate the delivery of equipment to hard-to-reach or flooded areas. It is expected to significantly reduce response times, extend operational coverage, and enhance safety for both emergency responders and civilians.

The new diving equipment will enable safe and efficient underwater operations — including in the aftermath of flooding, landslides, or the destruction of hydraulic infrastructure. The delivery includes dozens of specialised tools for deep-water dives and emergency responses in extreme conditions, including drysuits, buoyancy compensators, echo sounders with navigation, and surface communication systems.

This support was delivered under the “EU4Recovery – Empowering Communities in Ukraine” flagship partnership between UNDP and the EU that aims to enhance the resilience of war-affected communities. Assistance to the SES is part of a broader, systemic approach to strengthening community security. It combines rapid response capabilities with long-term institutional support for services tasked with protecting the population.

Jocelin Cornet, Head of Section on Reconstruction, Energy, Infrastructure and Environment at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, said that this equipment is a vital part of the EU’s ongoing support for Ukraine. “It will enable emergency teams to respond faster, more effectively, and with greater safety — both for themselves and the people they protect,” said Mr Cornet. Strengthening emergency and security services remains a top priority for the EU as we continue to stand by Ukraine in its recovery and resilience efforts.”

Christophoros Politis, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Ukraine, stressed that the delivered equipment reflects a broader people-centred approach to security. “This equipment is first and foremost part of a wider effort to build a people-centred model of security — one that UNDP and the EU are implementing in close cooperation with local communities,” said Mr Politis. “We are supporting security that is grounded in people’s everyday realities — right where they live and face risks daily. When citizens know they can rely on capable and well-equipped services, it not only saves lives — it builds trust. And trust is the foundation for people staying in their communities, returning home, and contributing to recovery.”

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org