Government's action program envisions raising $500 million for community and regional projects under direct-partnership network in 2026-2027

In 2026, the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has outlined an action program to reform the network of direct partnerships, referred to as "bridges of trust," between Ukrainian communities and regions and those of host countries. This reformation falls under the purview of the newly established Ministry for Communities, Territories and Internally Displaced Persons.

The program's objectives include establishing at least 100 direct partnerships by 2026-2027, preparing Ukrainians for their return home, training 1,000 project managers, and raising $500 million for community and regional projects.

Additionally, the program anticipates the expansion of international financing based on an internationally recognized evaluation of reconstruction needs. This will be achieved through government-to-government (G2G) agreements, the introduction of direct financing for territorial communities, and the systematization of international technical assistance and donor coordination, all aligned with regional policy priorities.

The ministry's mandate includes fostering international partnerships between regions and territorial communities, enhancing their effectiveness through twinning arrangements, interregional and macro-regional cooperation, and ensuring Ukraine's active participation in bilateral and multilateral cooperation and multilateral coordination platforms.

A significant aspect of the program is preparing territorial communities for the return of citizens from abroad, focusing on organizational, financial, and infrastructural readiness. The Cabinet of Ministers approved this action program on August 17, 2026, and it is set to be reviewed by the Verkhovna Rada in the near future.