A photo of a memory board created by Zmistovno students in Odesa, July 2026
Thirty-five years ago, on August 24, Ukraine restored its independence. Today, Ukrainians defend and strengthen it every single day.
The United States and Ukraine are separated by geography and history, but united by the belief that people have the right to live freely and determine their own future.
In July, Ambassador Erin E. McKee traveled to Odesa and Mykolaiv to meet the people and organizations living that belief: Ukrainians leading recovery in their own communities, supported by partnerships that last.
WORKING ON RECOVERY NOW
On July 4, Nova Ukraine hosted its first-ever partner event in Ukraine, bringing together 76 participants from 55 organizations representing nearly every region of the country.
These are the teams implementing projects across HEAL, BUILD, EMPOWER, and ADVOCATE. The gathering created space to exchange ideas, deepen collaboration, and plan the work ahead.
The event is an important step toward Nova Ukraine’s 2030 vision: strong local organizations working together, sharing knowledge, and helping communities shape their own future.
Watch the partner event video →
UKRAINE’S LIFELINE
Ukraine’s railway network connects cities, communities, hospitals, businesses, and humanitarian routes across the country. Throughout the Russian full-scale invasion, trains have carried millions of people to safety, kept critical supplies moving, and helped hold the country together.
This year, Russia is increasingly targeting it.
Since the beginning of 2026, Russian attacks have destroyed or damaged more than 200 locomotives and struck Ukrainian railway facilities over 1,000 times. Nova Ukraine is proud to work with Ukrzaliznytsia across several projects.
Most recent update on an Iron Youth project →
ON THE GROUND
HEAL
Training Surgeons to Treat Acoustic Trauma
Explosions can cause hearing loss, chronic pain, balance problems, and other injuries that affect every part of daily life.
We are supporting specialized training for Ukrainian ear, nose, and throat surgeons focused on diagnosing and treating acoustic trauma. Improving treatment standards and expanding local medical expertise will help more civilians and service members receive the specialized care they need.
A New Partnership in Odesa
During her visit to Odesa, Ambassador McKee toured the Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases, one of Ukraine’s leading ophthalmology centers. The institute continues advancing medical research and treatment while caring for a growing number of patients with severe eye injuries caused by the war.
BUILD
Clean Water is a Human Right
Nearly 400,000 people in Mykolaiv face shortages of safe drinking water since Russian forces destroyed the pipeline serving the city at the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
Nova Ukraine has stations in the region that now provide over 90,000 liters of clean water daily. We are also working on larger projects and expanding the network of water and solar-powered stations to improve access to safe drinking water across the region.
Hear from Mykolaiv residents →
Emergency Calls are Part of Daily Life in Ukraine
Since Nova Stash launched in 2024, teams in more than nine regions have worked alongside first responders and local officials during the critical first hours after attacks. They provide water, food, first-aid supplies, and other immediate assistance to affected communities.
Two years into the project, we continue to expand this network, improve coordination, and help teams prepare for the next emergency.
EMPOWER
Supporting Those Who Support Veterans
Through the newly launched Vector of Resilience program, Nova Ukraine and its partners are supporting the professional development of 60 veteran support specialists from communities across Volyn. The three-stage program combines in-person training, online case discussions, and practical learning with experienced psychologists and trauma therapists.
Watch a participant’s reflection →
Music Continues in Zaporizhzhia
At a music school in the frontline city of Zaporizhzhia, enrollment has nearly doubled since 2022. The school welcomes children from displaced families, children of defenders, and young musicians searching for stability and community.
This summer, students shared recordings of their final exam performances with us.
ADVOCATE
A New Report
A report released in July by three independent legal experts details the systematic militarization and indoctrination of Ukrainian children by the Russian Federation.
The investigation, commissioned after 41 OSCE participating states invoked the Moscow Mechanism, documents forced transfers, imposed Russian citizenship, Russian-only curricula, pro-war indoctrination, and military-style training.
Ukraine Action Summit, Fall 2026
The ninth Ukraine Action Summit will bring Ukraine’s supporters together in Washington, D.C., from September 12–16.
Come say hello to the Nova Ukraine team during the Conference and Expo on September 12–13, then join advocates from across the country for training and meetings on Capitol Hill from September 14–16.
WHAT’S AHEAD
Celebrate Ukraine’s 35th Independence Day
On August 24, Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine around the world will mark 35 years since Ukraine restored its independence. Share your story with us on why this day is important for you for an opportunity to be featured across Nova Ukraine’s community channels.
Run for Ukraine. Wherever You Are
The third annual Run for Ukraine will take place on September 13.
Join us for a live 5K or one-mile run and walk in Wheeling, Illinois, or participate virtually from anywhere in the world.
Thank You
Every project that we highlighted in this newsletter connects with people on the ground who understand their communities and are determined to build a stronger future for an independent Ukraine with a thriving civil society.
Thank you for investing in the Ukrainian people. Thank you for standing with Ukraine.
With gratitude,
Team Nova Ukraine
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A Small Action That Makes a Difference
Keeping Ukraine visible matters. As news cycles move quickly, attention becomes one of Ukraine’s most valuable resources. If you find a story in this newsletter meaningful, please share it with a friend, family member, or colleague.
Donate. Impact. Change.
We greatly value your support, and it is indeed crucial. Please consider donating monthly. Your consistent contributions are vital to sustaining our efforts and driving meaningful change over time. Your commitment will make a lasting difference, and we sincerely appreciate your consideration. Donate now or learn how you can help.
