Established in February 2023, the AER Focus Group on Ukraine has proved to be a crucial gateway for sharing vital information among Ukrainian and European regions, particularly strategic in the context of the illegal war of aggression being waged against Ukraine. Click here to know more on how the Focus Group came to life.
On 4 April, 2025, a horrific missile attack targeted a residential neighbourhood of Kryvyi Rih. In the five days following the attack, the region took the lead in galvanising international support for the region and Ukraine. 32 Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassadors to Ukraine visited Kryvyi Rih to see the attack site and express their condolences.
The continued human and material destruction underscores the need for consistent mobilisation of political, economic and social resources to facilitate the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine. Sergii Miliutin, AER Vice President and Deputy Mayor of Kryvyi Rih, has been coordinating the efforts of the AER Focus Group to ensure that the needs of affected communities are met.
AER welcomes delegation to matchmaking event for Ukrainian regions and municipalities
The AER was delighted to welcome delegations from Kharkiv and Poltava Regional Councils to Brussels for a matchmaking event, organised by the European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the Reconstruction of Ukraine.
The event offered insights on practical tools for building international partnerships, enhancing local and regional government capacities, insights on effective development strategies, and updates on preparations for the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference, taking place in Rome.
As a core member of the Alliance, the Assembly endorsed a joint Alliance declaration calling for support of local and regional authorities in the accession process, and the need to establish peer-to-peer partnerships for joint projects that will drive Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery.
The Assembly of European Regions underlines the need for the EU to offer financial support for capacity-building projects and partnerships for regional governments in Ukraine.
