In the wake of one of Sri Lanka’s most devastating natural disasters in decades, the Government of Russia has stepped forward to support relief and recovery efforts by donating a 35-tonne humanitarian aid consignment to Sri Lanka. Ceylon Today+1
The aid shipment — transported aboard a Russian Ilyushin Il-76 cargo aircraft — arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake on 10 December 2025. Officials from both countries participated in the official handover ceremony, underscoring deep diplomatic ties and solidarity during Sri Lanka’s time of need. Ceylon Today
📦 What’s Included in the Aid
The 35 metric tonnes of relief supplies were carefully selected to support immediate humanitarian needs in the cyclone and flood-affected regions. The package includes: Newsfirst
- 🔌 Mobile power station (60 kW) to restore essential electricity
- 💦 Water pumping and drainage equipment
- 🏕️ Summer tents (for temporary shelter)
- 🍚 Essential food supplies such as rice, sugar, and vegetable oil
Strengthening Sri Lanka’s Relief Operations
Sri Lanka was struck by Cyclone Ditwah in late November 2025, triggering catastrophic flooding and landslides across the island. This cyclone has been described as one of the deadliest natural disasters since the 2004 tsunami, claiming hundreds of lives and displacing thousands of families. Reuters
The international community’s response has been broad, with multiple nations and organizations contributing aid — from shelter and food supplies to financial assistance through humanitarian appeal funds. LankaWeb
🤝 Diplomacy in Action
Russia’s donation highlights the importance of international cooperation in disaster response. Russian Ambassador Levan Dzhagaryan, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka, and Deputy Minister of Defence Retired Major General Aruna Jayasekara jointly oversaw the formal acceptance of the aid at BIA. Ceylon Today
In his remarks, Ambassador Dzhagaryan reaffirmed the strong diplomatic relationship between the two countries and Russia’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in times of crisis.
