THIS WEEK IN UKRAINE
11 October 2024
Polish Farmers Threaten New Border Blockade Amid Ongoing Tensions
Starting October 8, 2024, Polish farmers may block truck traffic at the "Medika-Shehyni" border crossing in protest, potentially lasting until the end of the year. The protest, triggered by competition concerns following the liberalization of international transport between Ukraine and the EU, mirrors previous actions. In 2023, Polish transport companies and farmers blocked multiple border crossings, including "Krakivets-Korchowa" and "Yahodyn-Dorohusk." Although some agreements were reached, protests were repeatedly reignited, with blockades occurring throughout late 2023 and early 2024. Polish authorities have previously classified border crossings as critical infrastructure to prevent disruptions in weapon and humanitarian aid deliveries.
Ukraine Passes Landmark Climate Policy Law, Aiming for EU Alignment and Climate Neutrality by 2050
The Verkhovna Rada has passed the euro-integration bill No. 11310 on state climate policy, with 284 votes in favor. This legislation aligns Ukraine’s climate laws with EU standards and aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. It establishes governance structures and financial tools for climate goals, integrating them into Ukraine’s post-war recovery programs. The bill also highlights environmental damage caused by Russia's invasion, with over 5,500 recorded incidents, urging international recognition of Russia’s actions as ecocide.
Ukraine Takes Steps Toward AI Regulation to Lead Global Innovation
Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation has started developing legal regulations for artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to keep pace with global trends. Minister Mykhailo Fedorov emphasized the importance of creating a national AI strategy. As part of this effort, nine leading Ukrainian IT companies (including Grammarly, MacPaw, and DroneUA) have signed a Declaration of Self-Regulation in the field of AI, marking a key step toward future AI legislation. Current AI applications include a virtual assistant for the Diia platform and military uses, such as tracking enemy movements. Ukraine also seeks to attract top international AI companies, following regulatory models seen in the EU and the U.S.
Ukraine and Slovakia Strengthen Cooperation on Energy and Infrastructure Projects
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal highlighted progress in joint energy, transport, and infrastructure projects with Slovakia, which strengthen ties and boost border region development. Speaking alongside Slovak PM Robert Fico, Shmyhal emphasized ongoing efforts to finalize bilateral agreements by the year’s end. Both nations have made strides in energy and infrastructure cooperation, with Slovakia also approving a framework for Ukraine’s reconstruction. The leaders also discussed practical steps toward President Zelenskyy's peace formula and Slovakia’s support for Ukraine’s EU integration efforts.
​Diia.Business Launches Free Cyber Diagnostics Program to Strengthen SME Security in Ukraine
The Cyber Diagnostics Program by "Diia.Business" offers free cybersecurity services for Ukrainian SMEs. Businesses can choose from penetration testing, mobile app security assessments, or full vulnerability evaluations. Eligible companies (up to 250 employees and €50 million in revenue) register on the Diia.Business portal and participate in an automated auction, where providers compete with bids. Winning companies receive expert-reviewed reports detailing their vulnerabilities and solutions. The program ensures transparency, high-quality assessments, and free services, helping SMEs enhance cybersecurity while aligning with EU standards for international growth.
Ukraine’s Economic Losses Surpass $1.16 Trillion Amid Ongoing War, KSE Reports
As of July 2024, Ukraine’s economic losses due to the full-scale invasion exceed $1.164 trillion in lost revenue, according to the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE). The hardest-hit sectors include trade, industry, and agriculture, while infrastructure, such as energy and transportation, also faces significant losses. Additional costs for demining, housing, and social benefits further burden the economy. KSE's estimates, made in collaboration with the Ministry for Communities and the National Bank of Ukraine, underline the long-term impact on sectors like healthcare, education, IT, and more.
Norway Proposes $12.7 Billion Increase in Support for Ukraine Through 2030
The Norwegian government has proposed increasing the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine to $12.7 billion, extending it until 2030. The program, originally set at 75 billion Norwegian kroner, will now rise to 135 billion kroner, with $2.5 billion allocated for 2024 alone. This funding will be split between military support (17 billion kroner) and civil assistance (10 billion kroner), aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities and maintaining critical infrastructure during the war. The proposal awaits approval from the Norwegian Parliament.
Danone and Ukraine’s Ministry of Health Partner to Boost National Rehabilitation Services
Danone (French multinational food-products corporation), under the guidance of Ukraine's Ministry of Health, has launched a large-scale social initiative called "The Future is Here!" aimed at highlighting the importance of comprehensive medical rehabilitation for the country's health and economic resilience. Partners in the project include the National Cancer Institute, the Unbroken Center, and the Ukrainian State Medical-Social Center for War Veterans. A communication campaign will share real-life stories of Ukrainians who have successfully undergone rehabilitation and inspire others to begin their journey. Previously, Danone has already committed €3 million to finance medical rehabilitation programs for Ukrainians, train specialists, and standardize services to improve access and outcomes for patients in need.
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