Mykolaiv, Ukraine, 26 January 2026 — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine has officially opened a new office in Mykolaiv, increasing its presence in the region and enhancing its capacity to support communities across Mykolaiv Oblast on their path towards reconstruction, returns, resilience, and the long-term reforms aligned with sustainable development and Ukraine’s EU integration efforts.

The new office will serve as an operational hub for UNDP, enabling teams to implement a wide portfolio of projects and programmes together with international and local partners. A major driver for this expansion is the recently launched three‑year Mykolaiv Strategic Partnership between the Government of Denmark, UNDP, and Mykolaiv Oblast and City Administrations. With a budget exceeding US$36 million, the partnership aims to accelerate reconstruction and recovery by restoring critical infrastructure, revitalizing the local economy, and strengthening institutions and community resilience.

By increasing its operational footprint, UNDP will be better positioned to apply its area‑based recovery approach, a comprehensive, systems‑level response that brings together local authorities, communities, the private sector, and civil society to address complex recovery challenges in an integrated, inclusive, and sustainable way.

Vitalii Kim, Head of the Mykolaiv Oblast Administration, stressed the importance of strengthened support for regional recovery: “Mykolaiv Oblast’s communities are rebuilding during the war, and they count on partners who stand with them every step of the way. The opening of this UNDP office brings new momentum to our joint efforts. Together, we can accelerate the rebuilding of communities, services, and opportunities for the people of Mykolaiv Oblast.”

Mykolaiv’s mayor, Oleksandr Senkevych, emphasized the value of closer cooperation with international partners: “Local recovery succeeds when we work hand in hand with those who share our commitment to the city’s future. With more UNDP personnel now present on the ground, we can respond faster, plan better, and implement solutions that meet people’s real needs. This collaboration will help us build a stronger, more resilient Mykolaiv.”

Jakob Torrild Hansen, Head of the Danish Embassy Office in Mykolaiv, highlighted Denmark’s long‑term commitment to the region: “Denmark stands with Mykolaiv not only in moments of crisis, but on the long journey of rebuilding and renewal. Our strategic partnership with UNDP is designed to deliver a practical, lasting impact for communities across the oblast. By combining resources and expertise, we are creating the foundations for sustainable development in the years ahead.”

Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, highlighted the importance of community-driven recovery: “Opening this office and expanding our team — many of whom are Mykolaiv residents — will enable us to work even more closely with local partners and provide comprehensive support through an area‑based recovery approach. Together with Denmark and other development partners, we remain committed to supporting Mykolaiv Oblast as it leads its own recovery — rebuilding stronger, more resilient, and fully aligned with Ukraine’s path towards an EU future.”

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