Tue Feb 25 12:13:48 UTC 2025: ## Ukraine’s Reconstruction Cost Soars to $524 Billion Amid Ongoing Russian Attacks

**Kyiv, Ukraine** – The cost of rebuilding Ukraine after three years of war with Russia has skyrocketed to over half a trillion dollars, according to a new joint report by the World Bank, United Nations, European Commission, and the Ukrainian government. Released on Tuesday, the report estimates the total cost at $524 billion – nearly triple Ukraine’s projected 2024 GDP. This figure represents a 7% increase from last year’s estimate of $486 billion.

The report, covering damages from February 24, 2022, to December 31, 2024, details extensive damage across various sectors. Housing, transport, energy, commerce, and education have been hardest hit, with a 70% increase in damage to energy infrastructure due to Russian attacks. Approximately 13% of Ukraine’s housing stock has been damaged or destroyed, impacting over 2.5 million households. The report breaks down the cost by sector, with housing accounting for $84 billion, transport for nearly $78 billion, and energy and mining at almost $68 billion. Debris clearance alone is estimated at $13 billion. The report notes that $13 billion in needs across eight sectors have already been met through Ukrainian government and donor funds.

The ongoing conflict continues to drive up reconstruction costs. The anniversary of the full-scale invasion was marked by a fresh wave of Russian missile and drone attacks on Tuesday. Ukrainian authorities reported the interception of six missiles and 133 drones, while another 79 failed to reach their targets. A woman was injured and houses damaged in the Kyiv region. Poland, a NATO member, scrambled aircraft in response to the attacks.

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos highlighted the “extraordinary damage” inflicted by Russia and stressed the need for deeper integration of Ukraine’s economy into the EU single market. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal emphasized that ongoing Russian attacks continue to increase recovery needs, prioritizing the rebuilding of energy infrastructure and housing. The staggering cost underscores the immense challenge facing Ukraine’s long-term recovery.

Read More