On October 18, 2024, the U.S. Department of State’s Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya visited Ukraine to meet with the Minister of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine, Ukrainian veterans, and IREX to discuss Ukraine’s priorities regarding veteran reintegration. 

Minister of Veterans Affairs Natalia Kalmykova emphasized U.S. support and expressed her gratitude to the Under Secretary for the ongoing assistance, particularly in advancing digitalization efforts such as the veterans' e-registry, psychosocial support programs, and strengthening the legal framework for veteran reintegration. Kalmykova outlined key strategic priorities, stressing the importance of addressing both mental and physical health needs, and underscored the pivotal role veterans will play in shaping Ukraine's post-war future and spearheading its economic recovery.  

“It is an honor to meet with Minister Natalia Kalmykova and veterans here in Kyiv,” said Secretary Zeya. “I bring a message from President Biden, reaffirming our unwavering support for the Ukrainian people until victory is achieved. We are committed to supporting Ukrainian veterans through strengthening government and support to civil society organizations, enhancing psychosocial services and health recovery, promoting education, employment, and veteran entrepreneurship. Veterans will play a critical role in Ukraine’s recovery, not only as defenders of their nation but also as leaders and builders of a prosperous future.”  

Secretary Zeya also met with Ukrainian veterans who have been working with IREX under the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO)-funded Reintegration and Ukraine Rapid Response Fund programs. The IREX team in Ukraine extended a warm welcome to Under Secretary Zeya, and Project Director Uliana Bakh highlighted IREX’s work in this area. "IREX was honored to receive support from the U.S. State Department in 2019 to work with veterans, making us one of the first international programs in Ukraine focused on veteran reintegration,” stated Bakh. “Over the years, we’ve built strong expertise and will continue collaborating with the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, civil society, and veterans themselves to create support systems for those who sacrificed for Ukraine’s freedom and the democratic world." 

During the visit, three veterans in attendance discussed current challenges faced by Ukrainian veterans and advised on how U.S. assistance can support them. Alina Viatkina, a project manager of NGO Vilnyi Vybir and developer of the first psychological self-help application for veterans called “Baza,” emphasized the importance of digital services and innovative approaches in supporting veterans, especially women. Oleksandr Chamorsov, head psychologist for the Ukraine Veteran Foundation Crisis Support Hotline, highlighted the ongoing need of psychological support for veterans. Kostiantyn Tatarkin, technical advisor on veteran affairs at IREX for CSO-funded programs, stressed the necessity of specialized physical rehabilitation and skill development to aid veterans in transitioning into the workforce.  

This visit marked a significant moment in bolstering the collaboration between the U.S. and Ukraine on veteran affairs. It reinforced international cooperation in addressing veteran issues and reaffirmed the ongoing dedication to supporting Ukraine’s veterans.  

IREX works hand-in-hand with local partners, and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. The contents are the sole responsibility of IREX, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of State.