5,000 patients medically evacuated from Ukraine for urgent treatment

The European Commission has facilitated the safe transfer of over 5,000 from Ukraine patients to hospitals in 22 countries across Europe for specialised medical care under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. This figure was reached last week, while the latest flights happened yesterday, bringing patients to Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway.

Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib said:

'Reaching 5,000 medical evacuations under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism shows Europe at its best, saving lives through solidarity and swift cooperation. This achievement was made possible by the unwavering commitment of all countries involved: from Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway, who welcomed patients just yesterday, to the 18 other European countries that have taken in patients for treatment and care. We will continue to strengthen our collective response to protect those most in need.'

Since the start of Russia's war of aggression, the EU has worked around-the-clock with Member States and partners to ensure that Ukrainian patients in urgent need of treatment can access care beyond the country's borders.

Coordinated through the Commission's Emergency Response Coordination Centre in close collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, evacuations have enabled patients suffering from severe injuries, chronic illnesses and complex conditions to receive timely and often life-saving treatment. Hospitals in EU Member States have stepped forward to offer highly specialised care, while medicalised transport and logistics have been rapidly mobilised to ensure safe transfers under challenging circumstances.

This is the largest medical evacuation operation ever coordinated under the European Civil Protection Mechanism. The EU remains committed to supporting Ukraine's healthcare system and ensuring that those most vulnerable receive the care they need.