A UN delegation for humanitarian affairs visited Odesa, led by humanitarian coordinator Matthias Schmale. 

The purpose of the visit was to assess the current situation and discuss future collaboration steps. 

On October 15, 2024, during a meeting with acting Odesa Mayor Oleksandr Filatov and advisor Veronika Etnarovych, issues regarding security, humanitarian needs of the city, support for internally displaced persons, and winter preparation were discussed. 

Additionally, collaboration plans with charities and international partners were examined.

The delegation members visited the Social-Psychological Assistance Center for internally displaced persons housing around 100 individuals.

UN representatives assessed the living conditions of the residents and spoke with both the displaced individuals and the Center's staff. 

Matthias Schmale noted that the Center, which provides comfortable living conditions for those forced to leave their homes, is among the best in Ukraine.

On October 16, the UN delegation visited Sofiivska Street, 6, where emergency repairs are being conducted on a residential building roof through the collaboration of charities and municipal services. 

Summarizing the visit, Matthias Schmale expressed solidarity with Ukrainians and emphasized the importance of international support for stability and security amid ongoing conflict. 

«I was very pleased to hear the priorities of the city government – we discussed energy infrastructure needs, winter preparation, and assistance for internally displaced persons,» said Mr. Schmale.