The European Commission announced Thursday that it is to provide funding of 22 million euro to assist the population of Ukrainian regions suffering from the consequences of the conflict. This funding consists of two parts: 5 million euro is humanitarian aid and 17 million euro development aid. The announcement comes a day before European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso visits Kiev. On Friday afternoon, he will meet with President Petro Poroshenko and on Saturday morning with Prime Minister Arseny Yatsenyuk. During these bilateral talks, leaders will discuss the security situation and the current cease fire, the political and economic situation in Ukraine and the EU/Ukraine relations.
"The European Union is following with great concern the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and in particular its impact on the civilian population. The current cease fire needs to be upheld and used as an opportunity to alleviate the conditions of those in need, namely women and children. This is why the European Commission is mobilising 22 million to assist the population in need and promote social and economic development in the country," said Barroso in a statement.