Gov. Holcomb makes trip to Ukraine to meet with Pres. Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Thursday, September 5, 2024 at 9:36 AM

By Staff report

Holcomb is first U.S. governor to visit since Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Governor Eric J. Holcomb is in Kyiv to focus on subnational diplomacy that will positively impact future economic, academic and cultural two way partnerships between Indiana and Ukraine.

This trip will mark the first time a U.S. governor has traveled to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

“Indiana’s reach far extends beyond our state borders. Where others may hesitate, Hoosiers step up, especially for friends in need,” Gov. Holcomb said. “Ukrainians have long been known to be resilient, courageous and innovative. By strengthening our global connections, even during the most challenging of times, our people and their communities can mutually grow and ultimately prosper.”

Gov. Holcomb and a small delegation traveled from Milan to Kyiv and arrived in Ukraine on the morning of Thursday, Sept. 5. During the one day visit, the governor will be joined by Dr. Svitlana Ramer, the Honorary Consul of Ukraine, and meet with with U.S. and Ukrainian government officials to discuss Indiana’s state role in maintaining overseas economic, academic and cultural relationships.

Gov. Holcomb will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss how Indiana can strengthen its support of Ukraine now and into the future, including continuing our critical agricultural and life science support. Pres. Zelenskyy will also witness an MOU signing between Indiana and the Zhytomyr Oblast, a province in Ukraine.

The governor will meet with the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, where they will discuss a better way to build local communities far beyond our state and national borders.

While in Kyiv, Gov. Holcomb will also meet with U.S. Ambassador Bridget A. Brink to show his unwavering support for her ongoing efforts in Ukraine.

Lastly, the governor will visit the Wall of Remembrance of the Fallen for Ukraine to honor those who have lost their lives in Ukraine’s fight against Russia.

This marks Gov. Holcomb’s 25th international economic development trip as governor and his first trip to Ukraine. The cost of the governor’s travel is being paid through private donations to the Indiana Economic Development Foundation.