THIS WEEK IN UKRAINE
21 November 2024
Denmark Pledges €130M to Boost Ukraine's Defense Industry
Denmark has committed €130 million to support the development of Ukraine’s defense industry, focusing on missile and drone production. Announced during Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s visit to Kyiv, the funding is part of Denmark's broader defense aid to Ukraine, which includes over 20 military support packages. The initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine’s domestic arms production and integrate investment from other countries. Frederiksen emphasized Denmark’s continued support, highlighting Ukraine’s importance to European security and its Euro-Atlantic integration.
Japan’s Foreign Minister Visits Ukraine to Boost Security Cooperation
Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya made an unannounced visit to Ukraine on November 16, marking his first trip since the formation of Japan's new government. He visited the Bucha memorial and met with President Zelensky to discuss North Korea’s involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine. The leaders condemned Pyongyang's collaboration with Moscow and emphasized the need for collective action. They also agreed to deepen security cooperation, establishing a high-level bilateral defense and foreign affairs dialogue.
Lithuania Pledges €10M More for Ukraine
Lithuania will contribute an additional €10 million to the World Bank’s Ukraine Recovery Trust Fund to support urgent infrastructure reconstruction. This marks Lithuania’s second donation to the fund, following a €5 million contribution in 2022. Since its launch, the fund has raised nearly €2 billion from 16 countries to aid Ukraine's recovery in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and public utilities.
Ukraine's Top Energy Company Completes First Phase of New Wind Farm
DTEK has completed the first phase of the Tiligul Wind Farm, located in Mykolaiv region, just 100 km from the front lines, marking a historic achievement in renewable energy during wartime. With a capacity of 114 MW, it supplies electricity to 200,000 households. Future expansion to 384 MW will serve an additional 900,000 homes. This €650M project, built without state subsidies, also boosts local infrastructure and creates jobs.
Ukrainian Green Startups were Presented at COP29
Eight leading Ukrainian cleantech startups showcased innovative solutions at the UN Climate Change Conference COP29 in Baku. Their developments, including eco-packaging, energy monitoring, and EV charging systems, exemplify Ukraine’s role in advancing global sustainability. Backed by the EBRD/EU Climate Innovation Vouchers program, these startups are paving the way for eco-friendly technologies and representing Ukrainian climate solutions on the world stage.
Ukrainian Startup Releaf PAPER Expands to Paris
Ukrainian startup Releaf PAPER, known for producing eco-friendly paper from fallen leaves, has launched the world’s first industrial facility of its kind in Paris. Co-founder Oleksandr Sobolenko revealed the project required three years and €3.5 million to complete. He shared the video of manufacturing facility on his Facebook page.
Lviv and Czech NGO Partner to Empower Veteran Entrepreneurs
Through the “Courage to Business” program, Lviv City Council, in partnership with Czech NGO “People in Need,” offers veterans and their families financial and educational support. The Czech organization co-funds grants of up to 300,000 UAH and enables comprehensive business training. This collaboration empowers participants to launch and grow businesses, fostering economic resilience and supporting Ukraine’s veteran community.
Ukraine Reviews Progress on Accessibility Plan
Ukraine’s Ministry of Communities and Territories Development held a coordination meeting to assess progress on the 2023-2024 Action Plan for the National Strategy to create a barrier-free environment by 2030. Officials discussed implementation challenges and emphasized the need for monitoring results. Vice Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba urged completion by 2024 or rescheduling to 2025 if necessary, highlighting accessibility as a key for Ukraine’s recovery.
Ukraine Adopts 2025 State Budget with Defense as Top Priority
On November 19, 2024, Ukraine's Parliament approved the 2025 state budget, emphasizing defense, economic recovery, and social support. The budget allocates 26.3% of GDP—approximately 2.23 trillion UAH—to defense, with increased funding for military salaries, equipment, and technology. Key sectors such as education (198.9 billion UAH) and healthcare (217 billion UAH) also receive significant support, alongside 420.9 billion UAH for social protection. The budget includes investments in infrastructure recovery through the Public Investment Management system, and additional resources for veteran support, local communities, and digital transformation.