UAE bolsters Ukraine relief efforts, sends 23 ambulances

As part of the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian drive to support countries in need around the world, the Emirates has sent a ship carrying 23 ambulances to war-ravaged Ukraine.

The equipment was shipped on Thursday, according to state news agency WAM. The supplies are expected to strengthen Ukraine’s health sector amid a brutal conflict with Russia.

The UAE will continue with its humanitarian efforts to support Ukrainians, Salem Ahmed Salem Al Kaabi, the UAE ambassador to Ukraine, said.

As part of its ongoing foreign aid programme, the Middle Eastern country plans to send 50 ambulances to Ukraine, said Majid bin Kamal from the Office of International Affairs.

UAE Pledges $100 Million In Relief Support

A brutal invasion has been raging in Ukraine since February 2022, killing scores of soldiers on either side of the conflict. It has triggered a massive displacement phenomenon, too.

In October 2022, the UAE pledged $100 million in relief support to the conflict-stricken country, following an order from President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The move came a day after the Emirati leader spoke with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. Sheikh Mohamed said the UAE would continue to assist in mitigating the impact.

So far, 11 aid flights have transported about 550 tonnes of relief supplies to Ukraine, including six ambulances, 2,520 generators and food and medical supplies.

Additional humanitarian aid has been delivered to tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees seeking shelter in neighbouring Poland, Bulgaria and Moldova.

Supporting Ukrainian Pupils And Those Heavily Impacted

The UAE has established an air bridge to ensure essential supplies reach those hit hardest by the conflict, in line with its earlier relief efforts for scores of different countries.

In partnership with the Foundation of the First Lady of Ukraine, Olina Zelenska, the Emirates recently sent an aid plane carrying 2,500 laptops and 10,000 school bags for Ukrainian pupils.

The crucial assistance would help pupils studying remotely after seeking refuge in neighbouring countries, according to the UAE ambassador to Ukraine.

Earlier last month, a ship loaded with 250 tonnes of vital aid, including personal supplies, blankets and lighting equipment, reached Ukraine to support those impacted by the invasion.