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HEAL Ukraine: Building Medical Resilience Together

Nova Ukraine was honored to be a part of the UA-MED Heal Ukraine Conference at Harvard University on November 7–8. Two days of powerful discussions brought together more than 250 doctors, researchers, and healthcare professionals from Ukraine, the United States, and across the world, all united by one goal: to strengthen Ukraine’s healthcare system and build sustainable recovery. Nova Ukraine at the Heal Ukraine Conference Nova Ukraine participated in two key panels. In the first one, Kateryna Kovalenko, Nova Ukraine Vice President for Strategic Alliances, spoke about the organization’s long-term work in the medical field and its model of sustainable partnerships. She emphasized that Nova Ukraine operated as a hub that united global NGOs, donors, businesses, doctors, and social services around one purpose: saving lives and rebuilding Ukraine’s medical system.

“Ukraine Is an Asset, Not Charity”: Message from the Ukraine Action Summit

Erin E. McKee, CEO of Nova Ukraine, former U.S. Ambassador and USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia (2022–2025), explains the political and diplomatic turbulence and the challenges currently facing Ukraine: “I think the difference now is that, unfortunately, we have almost four years of war behind us. And now there needs to be a different tone, a different character to the stories we tell in order to keep America’s attention on the importance of supporting Ukraine."

Yale Expertise in Pain, Trauma Techniques Help Ukrainian MDs During Month-Long Training

“Our goal is to establish chronic pain treatment in Ukraine,” said Oksana Gologorska, the vice president of Medical Projects at Nova Ukraine. “Supporting our doctors in gaining international experience is absolutely critical.”

A Look At Critical Nova Stash Responses From Early to Mid-2025

As russia’s invasion of Ukraine persists into its third year, indiscriminate missile and drone attacks continue to devastate civilian life and infrastructure across the nation, deepening an already critical humanitarian crisis. The UN Refugee Agency estimates that 12.7 million people, including 2 million children, urgently require humanitarian assistance in 2025. This is further driven by widespread displacement: approximately 3.7 million are internally displaced in Ukraine, with 6.9 million refugees remaining abroad. The continued destruction of homes, hospitals, and schools—whether in Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia, and countless more cities—only exacerbate this crisis. In recognition of the escalating need for prompt distribution of humanitarian relief, Nova Ukraine launched the Nova Stash project in June 2024, a rapid-response initiative designed to deliver critical aid to Ukraine’s hardest-hit areas. Operating as a key arm of Nova Ukraine, Nova Stash consists of partners from local organizations who provide essentials like food, water, medical supplies, and shelter to survivors of russian attacks and shelling. As of September 2025, our Nova Stash teams are present in 13 regions throughout Ukraine. At the time of writing, Nova Stash teams have supported approximately 42,200+ victims across 133 locations targeted by russian shelling, totaling 176 deployments to attack sites. The significance of this project lies in the ability to mobilize essential aid swiftly and efficiently, bridging potential shortcomings in local emergency response efforts while supporting communities undergoing significant trauma. This article examines Nova Stash’s recent efforts, spotlighting its critical interventions following waves of russian airstrikes in early to mid-2025 across Odesa, Sumy, Zaporizhzhia, and Kryvyi Rih, and other cities, where the team’s rapid action has proven vital to survival and recovery.

Wisconsin first to introduce resolution condemning Russia’s cruel abduction of Ukrainian children

The initiative was led by Nova Ukraine, a California-based nonprofit that provides humanitarian aid and awareness programs, in partnership with Wisconsin Ukrainians Inc., a Milwaukee-area organization supporting the state’s growing Ukrainian community. The two groups worked with a bipartisan coalition of state legislators to bring the measure forward.

Ukrainian doctors visit Yale to learn advanced pain management for a country torn by war

A team of eight doctors from Ukraine on the frontlines of wartime medical care is currently spending a month training at Yale New Haven Hospital. The doctors are working to develop new standards of care for Ukrainian soldiers and civilians experiencing chronic pain. Their visit is part of a program: Improving Pain Management and Mental Health Treatment in Conflict Territories: Ukraine ‘IMPACT-UA,’” and is paid for by Nova Ukraine and Doctors United for Ukraine (DU4U), with support from the Yale Office of International Affairs.

Ukrainian Physicians Pave the Way for Chronic Pain Treatment

The Global Day Against Pain underscores a pivotal movement as Ukrainian physicians unite to tackle the pressing issue of chronic pain management. This effort, spearheaded by Doctors United for Ukraine (DU4U), aims to address a medical challenge often overlooked—chronic pain that affects countless lives. In collaboration with Nova Ukraine and distinguished support from the Yale Office of International Affairs, DU4U has initiated a transformative observership program at the esteemed Yale School of Medicine and Yale New Haven Hospital.

Wisconsin Becomes the First US State to Introduce a Joint Resolution on Abducted Ukrainian Children

Madison, Wisconsin On October 16, Wisconsin state legislators will introduce a historic joint resolution condemning the abduction and forced deportation of Ukrainian children by the Russian Federation. The resolution was presented to lawmakers by Nova Ukraine, a leading US-based nonprofit supporting Ukraine, and Wisconsin Ukrainians Inc, a grassroots volunteer nonprofit organization. It marks the first time such a resolution is introduced at the state level in the United States. When: 10:30 a.m – press conferenceWhere: Senate Parlor, Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison, WisconsinSupporting event: VR-exhibition

Weaponization of Winter in Ukraine. Community Preparedness and Resilience.

Give Warmth. Give Light. Give Hope. In the early hours of October 3, 2025, skies over Kharkiv and Poltava glowed orange as 381 drones and 35 missiles struck Ukraine’s gas and energy infrastructure. It was the largest attack on natural gas facilities since the full-scale invasion began. For the fourth winter in a row, Russia is trying to turn cold and darkness into weapons of war. Every year, the pattern repeats: power plants targeted, heating lines severed, families left without light, or heat, or water. President Volodymyr Zelensky has just announced $36 million to reinforce energy defenses, but the attacks are relentless and endanger civilians. At Nova Ukraine, we see the human cost—and the human response. Our mission bridges emergency support and long-term recovery. Through our BUILD pillar, which supports infrastructure and winter support projects in Ukraine, we make sure that every act of relief also builds Ukraine’s future capacity to endure.

September 2025 Newsletter

Dear Friend, This September marked a milestone for Nova Ukraine: we had a strong presence at the United Nations General Assembly events for the first time. Together with global partners, we put Ukraine’s children and education at the heart of the world’s agenda. At the same time, Ukrainian cities and towns endured some of the heaviest strikes of the war, with nearly 600 drones and 48 missiles launched in one night across multiple cities. Families hid in shelters, schools were disrupted, and power outages swept through entire regions. Because childhood cannot wait for peace, with your help, we are healing lives, rebuilding systems, empowering communities, and advocating for Ukraine’s future.

Ukrainian Doctors Start Training in the US to Advance Pain Medicine Care

October 6, 2025 – New Heaven, CT Doctors United for Ukraine (DU4U), in partnership with Nova Ukraine and with the support of the Yale World Partnership Fund, launched a groundbreaking one-month observership at Yale School of Medicine (YSM) and Yale New Haven Hospital. The program brings Ukrainian physicians to study advanced approaches to treating chronic pain and integrating mental health care. “Relieving pain is a fundamental duty of any doctor. Especially now, for Ukrainians with physical and mental trauma from the ongoing war, resulting in chronic impairments,” says Andrey Zinchuk, Vice President of DU4U, Medicine, YSM. “We are partnering with Ukrainian physicians to advance evidence-based chronic pain treatment there and to learn from them about innovations forged during this war that help people in other conflicts.” “War in Ukraine caused a surge in complex trauma, amputations, and chronic pain syndromes among military and civilian populations. Chronic pain is an especially complex medical issue, affecting the daily lives of trauma survivors,” said Oksana Gologorska, Vice President of Medical Projects at Nova Ukraine. “In Ukraine, this field is changing in response to unprecedented need, through updating care standards, training specialists, and modernizing facilities, however the current capacity does not match the level of patient needs. That is why supporting Ukrainian doctors in gaining international experience is absolutely critical. Our goal is to establish world class chronic pain treatment in Ukraine accessible to all.”

Nova Ukraine Highlights Education Resilience at UNGA80: Learning to Stay Strong

Nova Ukraine joined global leaders at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly to spotlight education as Ukraine’s backbone of resilience. The high-level side event Learning to Stay Strong: Education as Ukraine’s Backbone of Resilience demonstrated how Ukraine’s schools and educators continue to function under bombardment, displacement, and destruction with 3.5 million children studying in bomb shelters, online, and in newly built underground schools. The event, organized by Osvitoria, Ukraine’s leading educational NGO, and supported by Nova Ukraine, brought together distinguished guests including First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska, Queen Silvia of Sweden, representatives of Permanent Missions to the UN, and international policymakers. Opening the event, First Lady Olena Zelenska stressed that education is not only a right but also a foundation of national recovery. Zoya Lytvyn, founder of Osvitoria, highlighted the staggering damage: “Since the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion, 3,798 educational institutions have been damaged, 365 completely destroyed. Behind every number there is a child who deserves a safe and happy life. That is why we call on the world to invest in education as the backbone of both Ukraine’s recovery and our shared future.” Ambassador Erin McKee, CEO of Nova Ukraine, emphasized solidarity: “Education is one of the most powerful investments in Ukraine’s future. Even as children study under the shadow of war, their determination to learn remains unshaken. Since 2014, Nova Ukraine has supported education at all levels, but after Russia’s full-scale invasion, we expanded these efforts many times over. We see education as a strategic priority because it equips children not only with knowledge, but also with resilience, creativity, and the skills they will need to rebuild their country.”

Statement by Nova Ukraine on the Meeting Between President Zelenskyy and President Trump

Nova Ukraine enthusiastically welcomes the official meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Donald J. Trump at the White House. President Trump’s strong words in support of Ukraine, and his recognition of the determination and courage of the Ukrainian people, send a powerful signal at this critical moment. His remarks underscore what Ukrainians and their allies know to be true: Russia’s war of aggression has not only failed to break Ukraine but has exposed Russia’s weaknesses and isolation. With continued international backing and the decisive role played by the United States along with the European Union and NATO, Ukraine has the capacity to reclaim its sovereign land, protect its people, and secure victory. We are especially grateful that the horrific issue of abducted Ukrainian children was addressed. Thousands of children have been torn from their families, taken against their will to Russia, and subjected to forced indoctrination. This is not only a violation of international law but a heartbreaking assault on the most innocent victims of this war. The safe return of these children is a moral imperative, and the world must not look away until every child is reunited with their family and homeland. Today, the path forward requires action. Congress is prepared to move decisively—including advancing new sanctions bills targeting Russia’s war machine and economic lifelines, ensuring the delivery of battle-tested American weapons to Ukraine, and accelerating measures to hold Russian officials accountable for war crimes. The bipartisan consensus on Capitol Hill reflects a growing recognition that Ukraine’s victory is not only achievable but essential for global security. At Nova Ukraine, we know this truth firsthand. Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, we have worked tirelessly to deliver humanitarian aid, mobilize communities across the United States, and advocate for stronger U.S. leadership in supporting Ukraine’s defense and recovery. Alongside other Ukrainian American organizations, we have been a consistent voice on Capitol Hill and throughout the country, urging decision-makers to provide Ukraine with the tools it needs to win.

Nova Ukraine’s Impact Report, April-June 2025

With the russian invasion in its fourth year, the human and economic toll on the people of Ukraine remains profound. Families continue to endure unimaginable hardship, communities struggle under the strain of conflict, and the nation’s economy faces severe disruption. Yet, in the face of these challenges, Nova Ukraine has stood unwaveringly beside those in need — delivering lifesaving aid, sustaining critical relief programs on the ground, and amplifying Ukrainian voices here in the United States. Nova Ukraine’s advocacy efforts have given Ukrainian Americans a powerful platform to share their experiences and needs directly with elected officials. By organizing meetings on Capitol Hill, facilitating conversations with elected officials and policymakers, Nova Ukraine has ensured that the critical needs of Ukraine — humanitarian relief, economic stabilization, and military assistance — remain at the forefront of U.S. foreign-policy discussions. The Board of Directors has focused this quarter on strengthening our organizational foundation. We have: Read the full report here.

Nova Ukraine Named Among Top 5 Most Influential Volunteer Organizations in Ukraine

Former USAID top official named CEO of Nova Ukraine foundation

Former USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe & Eurasia, Ambassador Erin McKee has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Nova Ukraine, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that provides aid to people affected by Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Former USAID Assistant Administrator Ambassador Erin E. McKee Named CEO of Nova Ukraine

Veteran diplomat and development leader brings her experience managing massive humanitarian operations to Ukraine-focused nonprofit. PALO ALTO, CA, August 21, 2025 – Nova Ukraine, the leading Ukrainian-American humanitarian organization, today announced the appointment of Ambassador Erin E. McKee as Chief Executive Officer. McKee brings more than two decades of diplomatic and development experience, most recently serving as USAID's Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia, where she led the agency's largest humanitarian response in history following Russia's re-invasion of Ukraine.

Trump to meet with Zelenskyy, European leaders at White House

Igor Markov, who is the board director for the Bay Area-based nonprofit Nova Ukraine, explained that life is very difficult for people living in Ukraine at the moment. "People have to protect themselves; there are air raid sirens pretty much every day," he added, noting that most Ukrainian Americans he knows are connected to someone who has been killed during the war. Nova Ukraine continues to provide aid, materials, and on-the-ground volunteers to help people in Ukraine. Markov said his organization is already preparing to get supplies sent into Ukraine to help people through the winter.

Statement by Nova Ukraine on Ongoing Negotiations Between President Trump, President Zelenskyy, European Leaders, and President Putin

Nova Ukraine welcomes the increasing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a just and lasting peacefor Ukraine. We recognize the importance of negotiations at the highest level, including the recent exchanges between President Trump, President Zelenskyy, European leaders, and President Putin. These contacts demonstrate that, more than three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine is standing strong, and the international community understands that a durable peace requires fair and sustainable terms. Remarkably, even President Putin now acknowledges the need for security guarantees for Ukraine. All sides have moved somewhat closer to a framework for peace, but fundamental disagreements remain. For Ukraine and partners, the principles are clear: respect for Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders, accountability for acts of aggression, ironclad security commitments, and the immediate return of all Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. We note positively First Lady Melania Trump’s advocacy on this crucial humanitarian issue, which gives hope to Ukrainian families still waiting for their children’s return and to the entire country. On the ground, the reality is undeniable. Both countries suffered heavy, irreversible losses. But Russia’s war effort is stalling. Its economy has suffered irreparable harm and is crumbling under financial and economic sanctions, international isolation, and Ukraine’s kinetic sanctions. Once a leading agricultural power, Russia is now a net importer of food as its grain harvest falters. On the battlefield, Russian forces are sustaining massive casualties while achieving only marginal territorial gains. Ukraine’s defenders, by contrast, remain resolute and determined, they are counterattacking in multiple directions. Ukraine continues to rely on strong Western support while rapidly increasing domestic defense production. With every passing day, Ukrainians draw strength from centuries-old culture, the unity of its people, and the courage of its armed forces.

Bay Area Ukrainians, Russians react to high-stakes Trump-Putin summit

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- President Donald Trump greeted Russian leader Vladimir Putin with a handshake Friday.The pair met for the first time in six years in Alaska to discuss ending the Russia-Ukraine War.

Ukraine’s Parliament Restores Independence to Anti-corruption Agencies

Nova Ukraine applauds the recent restoration of the independence of Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies, supported by strengthened safeguards to prevent Russian influence. The street protests across the country that led to this outcome were spearheaded by young, enthusiastic Ukrainians. Unlike the historic movements in 2004 and 2013, protesters demanded strong, independent government institutions, rather than facing the challenges of changing the country's strategic course or replacing the president. This new wave of civic activism underscores an evolving democratic spirit among Ukraine’s youth determined to ensure the stability of the rule of law and institutional integrity. The Ukrainian government heard the will of its people, then acted swiftly and appropriately — something that would not be possible in a dictatorship, in Russia. Nova Ukraine — all of us — are proud and immensely supportive of the young Ukrainians who fight against corruption. We have funded multiple anti-corruption projects over the years and have supported civil society as a core value and mission from the start. Building on democracy during a brutal war is an immense challenge for both the authorities and the people of Ukraine. Yet, the events of recent days have demonstrated a powerful collective commitment of Ukrainians to democracy and the rule of law under extraordinary pressures. This moment highlights the resilience of Ukraine’s democratic institutions and the steadfast resolve of its citizens, especially younger generations, to defend their country’s sovereignty and democratic future.

July 2025 Newsletter

Dear Friend, The war in Ukraine continues to affect every aspect of daily life. Hospitals work through blackouts. Children attend lessons in underground shelters. Families are separated and displaced. But within each of these challenges are the stories of people who keep going — and the community of supporters who stand beside them. This July, your support helped Nova Ukraine reach more people with life-saving aid, hands-on training, and ongoing advocacy efforts. Whether it was a first-aid kit delivered, a summer camp session for displaced kids, or an on-the-ground bomb shelter built, you made it happen. Here’s what you helped us do this month across our four focus areas: HEAL, BUILD, EMPOWER, and ADVOCATE — and the stories that bring them to life.

How Donald Trump’s Plan to Arm Ukraine Differs From Joe Biden’s

U.S.-based Nova Ukraine said in a statement to Newsweek regarding the 50-day deadline and delivery of U.S weapons: "We have long advocated for decisive U.S. leadership to help Ukraine defend itself and deter further Russian aggression."

Pres. Trump announced today that the U.S. will send Patriot missiles to Ukraine and threatened 100% secondary tariffs on Russia if there is no peace deal within 50 days.

Palo Alto, CA, July 14, 2025 – In a major policy shift, President Trump has announced that theU.S. will supply air defense systems and long-range weapons to NATO allies, who will thentransfer them to Ukraine. Speaking from the White House alongside NATO Secretary-GeneralMark Rutte, Trump pledged Patriot missiles and other urgently needed equipment to help Ukrainedefend itself against Russia’s escalating attacks. He also issued a clear warning to Moscow: if apeace deal is not reached within 50 days, the U.S. will impose 100% secondary tariffs on russia,targeting countries that continue to fund the Kremlin’s war machine by buying its oil. He confirmed that the U.S. will supply air defense and long-range weapons to NATO allies, whowill then deliver them to Ukraine, responding to a proposal made by President Zelenskyy at theNATO summit. President Trump: “We’re going to be doing secondary tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days. It’svery simple — and they’ll be at 100%. They’ll talk beautifully, and then bomb people at night. Wedon’t like that.” Before the announcement, President Zelenskyy met with U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyivto coordinate next steps: