Marking three years since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, this report highlights the resilience of its people and Singapore’s unwavering support through humanitarian aid, medical assistance, and economic cooperation.
On 24 February the world will reach the three-year mark of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Three years of war have brought pain, trials, and losses to the Ukrainian people, but they have also revealed an indomitable spirit, a will to fight for their identity, freedom, and the right to determine their future. Ukrainians united to defend their land, way of life, and right to exist. This resilience is not just a word – it is evident every day in the actions of millions of people who, despite the threats, continue to live, work, and help others.
Heroism during war is not only seen on the front lines. Every Ukrainian who wakes up after another missile attack and finds the strength to work, teach children, treat the sick, or volunteer is a hero. It is hardest for those who have lost loved ones, homes, or health. But despite this, people continue to fight for the future – building fortifications, organizing humanitarian aid, and supporting one another. It is important to remember that this fight is not only for survival but for a dignified life in a just world.
War is particularly cruel to children. It takes away their childhood, safety, access to education, and healthcare. Many children have lost their parents, and been forced to flee their homes or hide in shelters. They suffer from stress and psychological trauma that could have long-lasting effects. This hits the hardest of those who fight severe illnesses, as access to treatment becomes limited in wartime conditions.
An example of this is little Ksenia, who moved to Cherkasy from Mariupol after the war began. With her family, she underwent a difficult journey, and it was in Cherkasy that she was diagnosed with leukemia. Her mother emphasizes the importance of timely medical intervention, as delays can be costly. Another little patient, five-year-old Aliona, was diagnosed with leukemia and started treatment at the Cherkasy Oncology Center when she was 3,5 years old. For many families, especially during the war, the problem is not just the treatment but also financial difficulties, stress, and the lack of support for other children.
The vulnerable groups, in this context – children with cancer and their families – face significant challenges even under normal conditions due to the complexity of treatment, financial difficulties, stress, and emotional strain associated with fighting for a child’s life. However, during the war, their vulnerability increases. The war complicates access to medical services, creates additional difficulties in obtaining medicines and medical equipment, and increases financial pressure on families due to the need to constantly relocate.
Despite the difficulties, Ukraine is doing everything possible to support and protect these vulnerable groups, providing modern treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplants through healthcare programs. International donors and volunteers play an important role in supporting children during their treatment by organizing celebrations and giving gifts, which help children to cope with their illnesses.
Humanitarian challenges faced by Ukraine during times of war are immense. Our country has received invaluable support from many countries around the world, and Singapore holds a special place among them. Despite its geographical distance, this small yet influential country firmly supported Ukraine, standing up for international law and the territorial integrity of our state. Singapore provided three tranches of humanitarian aid, including medicines, demining equipment, ambulances, fire trucks, and other essential humanitarian supplies. A significant role in assisting Ukraine was also played by the civil society – Singapore’s Red Cross and other non-governmental organizations. These initiatives supported many communities and hospitals across Ukraine, including in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Mykolaiv, and implemented an important humanitarian program ensuring access to medical services and drinking water for communities in the Mykolaiv region. At the time, this assistance played an extremely important role in meeting the basic humanitarian needs of the region’s residents.
Particular attention should be given to initiatives that support the recovery of people affected by the war. At one point, an event was held in Singapore to raise funds for the prosthetics of five civilian women who lost their limbs due to Russian military actions. The funds raised were directed towards their rehabilitation at the «Superhumans Center» in Ukraine, which provides assistance to Ukrainians who have lost limbs because of the war. This rehabilitation is not only physical but also psychological support, which is crucial for adapting to new life realities. This is one of the many examples of how our joint action can bring good and hope to the lives of people during dire times, and can bring back faith in humanity.
For the protection of Ukraine’s citizens (and especially vulnerable groups of our society) and to get back on track with stable economic cooperation with the world, Ukraine needs reliable and stable peace for its further development and growth. However, Ukrainians have demonstrated the ability to find solutions even in the most difficult conditions and continue their economic activities despite the ongoing full-scale war. Singaporean investors, despite the risks and challenges of the war, and at times real property losses, have continued to operate their businesses in Ukraine. For instance, companies like Food Empire, a major food producer, and Wilmar International, a large producer of edible oils, adapted their business processes to the new conditions, helping to ensure global food security by maintaining business in Ukraine and exporting products to external markets. Similarly, companies like Flextronics continue to produce and export electronics. A number of other Singaporean companies are still operating in Ukraine, helping to support the economic situation.
The continued work of Singaporean companies in Ukraine during the war is a significant sign of solidarity and a testament to Ukraine’s ability to develop regardless of the circumstances. We are grateful to countries like Singapore and will be happy to welcome new entrepreneurs and investors who are ready to develop new businesses and work together with Ukraine on its post-war recovery.
Ukraine aspires to peace more than any other country in the world. We want to end the destruction and loss, but at the same time, we have the right to development and security, which can only be ensured by a reliable, long-term, and just peace. In today’s world, it is impossible to build a stable future without reliable partners who uphold the principles of sovereignty, freedom, and justice.
Only by speaking with one voice can we overcome the consequences of this war and ensure a better future for the next generations.
Ukraine continues to fight not only for itself but for a world in which the right of the strong does not replace the strength of the law. We are grateful to everyone who is helping us in this fight – together, we can restore peace and build a dignified future for our children.
Source: H.E. Ms. Kateryna Zelenko
