Ukraine to equip all border crossings with mobile shelters by 2026 with EU aid

The Ukrainian Agency for Reconstruction, led by deputy minister Serhi Derkaci, aims to install mobile shelters at every border crossing with Poland, Romania and the Republic of Moldova by the close of 2026. The rollout depends on the output of domestic shelter manufacturers, which are currently stretched by numerous projects. The European Union has pledged funding that will cover about one-third of the shelters needed.

Derkaci noted that Ukraine is also asking partner countries to help build a modular reserve for customs and border staff, enabling rapid re-establishment of control after attacks. He cited a recent incident in the Odesa region where modular units allowed a damaged crossing to resume operations within 24 hours. Russian strikes this year damaged four crossings in Odesa, including three on the Moldovan border and the Orlivka ferry crossing to Romania, as well as a fuel station near the Iahodin crossing with Poland.