On behalf of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak held a meeting with a group of US veterans – activists and philanthropists, who handed over equipment and other important humanitarian aid to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
In particular, the military units and units of the Khortytsia operational-strategic military group received vehicles, generators, chainsaws, welding machines, sleeping bags, wood-burning stoves, tablets, batteries, inverters, flashlights, individual first-aid kits from US veterans. Vehicles were also transferred to military units and units of the Tavria operational-strategic group of troops.
Addressing the audience, Yermak said that it is a great honor to welcome such courageous and indomitable people to Ukraine, especially in these difficult days.
"I know you really inspire a lot of people. By your example, your life, but also by today's actions. We see that you came not only to support us, but also brought things that are so necessary for our heroes today," he said.
In his opinion, US veterans have a lot in common with Ukrainians, and they understand our people like no one else, and especially Ukrainian soldiers.
"After all, Ukraine today defends not only itself, but also the entire free world," the head of the President's Office said.
Yermak said that even in a situation where many regions of Ukraine were completely left without electricity after another terrorist missile attack by the Russian Federation, Ukrainians are ready to continue their struggle.
The head of the Office of the President said that Ukraine has enough heroes and bravery, but more weapons and equipment are needed for victory.
"Our soldiers really need vehicles. And that list of important equipment that you brought with you is what our heroes need very much," he said.
Yermak said that Ukraine is very grateful to both the United States authorities and the entire American people for the historic support for our country during such hard trials.
Joe De Sena, the founder and CEO of the world's leading endurance sports Spartan Race, said that people in the United States admire how Ukrainians fight and do not give up, and they really want to support.
"And we want to inspire Americans to help you even more. After all, today you are really at the forefront of the fight for democracy," he said.
The meeting was also attended via video link by the commander of the Khortytsia Defense Forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrsky, the commander of the Tavria Defense Forces, Brigadier General Oleksandr Tarnavsky, the commander of the Kyiv Defense Forces and Combat Means Group, Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk. They thanked the US veterans for the assistance provided for the needs of the Ukrainian army.
The commander of the Ground Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, said that the mentioned vehicles and equipment will be handed over to the brigades, which in particular are fighting hard battles near the cities of Bakhmut and Soledar in extreme winter conditions.
"We really appreciate this help. Together we are stronger and only together we can win," he said.
Yermak said that the Ukrainians will fight for victory, which they are sure of, and the American guests today have the opportunity to see with their own eyes how our people are holding up and tell everyone about it.
"Once again, on behalf of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, our troops and all Ukrainians, we thank you very much, we appreciate this very much and will never forget it," the head of the President's Office said.