Lithuania plans to construct 6 bomb shelter schools in Ukraine by year's end

Artūras Žarnovskis, head of the Lithuanian Co-create Future of Ukraine program, shared this information in an interview with Ukrinform.

Žarnovskis discussed the ongoing large-scale project in the Mykolaiv region and other regions close to the frontlines, which frequently face attacks.

"In these areas, we'll establish safe schools-shelters for wartime use. During peacetime, these shelters can serve as versatile facilities for sports, entertainment, etc.," Žarnovskis explained.

He specified that the project will focus on specific locations in six regions: Mykolaiv, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, and Chernihiv. The location for the sixth facility is still under consideration, with Kharkiv being the likely choice.

"We're commencing construction of large bomb shelter schools from scratch in these regions, where unfortunately, shelters were previously lacking. As a precautionary measure, these underground premises will include anti-radiation protection," he stated.

He expressed confidence that construction could be completed by the end of this year.

Žarnovskis highlighted the significance of such projects, noting that due to ongoing Russian aggression and the COVID-19 pandemic, "some fourth-graders in certain Ukrainian regions have yet to physically attend school," which is crucial for their socialization.

• On April 23, it was announced that Lithuania intends to support Ukrainian air defense efforts, including the purchase of air defense radars.
• Additionally, on April 23, Lithuania revealed plans to transfer another batch of M577 command and staff armored vehicles to Ukraine. Previously, Lithuania had already delivered M577 armored personnel carriers to the Ukrainian military on April 5.
• Furthermore, on April 20, Lithuania announced the transfer of L-39ZA Albatros light combat aircraft to Ukraine.