The Next Frontline: Health Systems as the Foundation of European Defence – The Global Fund in Ukraine

29 August 2025

Before the full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine had the second-largest HIV epidemic and the fourth-highest burden of TB in the Eastern European region, but progress was being made. With the help of Global Fund investments over the last 20 years, rates of TB were falling, and people living with HIV were on treatment and knew their status. Drug-resistant TB remained an ongoing challenge in Ukraine. Domestic financing for HIV prevention services for key and vulnerable populations also increased, as did the capacity of community-led organisations.

Crises such as wars have a critical impact on the detection, treatment and control of infectious diseases and health systems. Since its inception, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has been a driving force in the global health landscape, supporting communities and national efforts to dramatically cut death rates from these deadly diseases and strengthen fragile health systems in some of the world’s most vulnerable contexts. In times of crisis, this mission becomes even more urgent.

A report, released by Results UK, highlights the devastating impact that Russia’s invasion has had on efforts to tackle TB and HIV in Ukraine, and how tackling the resurgence of infectious diseases is vital to protecting global health security and peace.

Supporting the Global Fund’s Eighth Replenishment is an opportunity for the UK and European donor countries to strengthen global health security in the region and reinforce collective defence. By contributing to the Global Fund’s $18 billion replenishment target, the UK and Europe can demonstrate credible and ethical leadership, promote international solidarity, and help ensure that no one is left behind.

Access the report here.

Source: Results UK