The Ukrainian Red Cross and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine Strengthen Cooperation in Emergency Response
A large-scale coordination meeting took place today between the State Emergency Service of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Red Cross, aimed at enhancing collaboration in managing volunteers and volunteer emergency responders.
The meeting was attended by Maksym Dotsenko, Director General of the Ukrainian Red Cross, and Andrii Danyk, Head of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, along with heads of regional departments of the State Emergency Service, departmental leaders from both organisations, emergency response team representatives, and heads of regional branches of the Ukrainian Red Cross. This is the first event of its kind and scale to bring together not only leadership but also volunteers who are directly involved in emergency response efforts.
During the meeting, Maksym Dotsenko emphasised:
“The State Emergency Service is our key partner in emergency response. We greatly value our cooperation on the ground, and the Memorandum between us is not merely a formality but a practical tool for structured, ongoing collaboration. The updated agreement reflects our hands-on experience and enables us to work more effectively.”
Andrii Danyk added,
“Despite all the challenges, we are facing them together. I am grateful to the Ukrainian Red Cross for the support our first responders receive during emergency operations. This was particularly evident during the recent Russian attack on Kyiv, where coordinated efforts at the scene ensured an effective response. Today presents a valuable opportunity to recognise individual contributions, establish priorities for continued cooperation, and sign the updated Memorandum.”
As a result of the meeting, the parties signed an addendum to the Memorandum of Cooperation, which outlines the following commitments:
- Establishing a clear procedure for engaging and coordinating volunteers during emergencies.
- Developing a programme of briefings, including those on occupational safety.
- Training volunteers in first aid and explosive ordnance recognition.
- Equipping volunteers with appropriate tools and protective gear.
- Strengthening cooperation with volunteer organisations, among other measures.
During the meeting, representatives of the Ukrainian Red Cross emergency response teams — who have been involved in responding to attacks and other emergencies — received letters of appreciation from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine.
The Ukrainian Red Cross and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine continue to work side by side to assist affected communities, respond effectively to emergencies, and strengthen their joint efforts in the field of civil protection.
