At an Abuja fundraiser, Ukraine’s envoy urged global donors to back “Allies of Steel,” a robotic rescue project to save wounded troops at war fronts.
The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria has launched a global fundraising drive to support a new robotic rescue initiative designed to save soldiers wounded on the frontlines of the war with Russia.
The campaign, unveiled over the weekend October 25-26, 2025, at a charity event in Abuja, aims to mobilize donations for the “Allies of Steel” project — an advanced robotic system that can evacuate injured soldiers, deliver food and ammunition, and clear mines in high-risk combat zones.
Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria, Ivan Kholostenko, described the effort as a humanitarian lifeline for those fighting to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty. “These ground robots are saving lives every day,” he said. “They evacuate wounded soldiers, deliver vital supplies, and clear paths through deadly minefields. Every contribution matters — even one dollar can help save a Ukrainian defender’s life.”
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The fundraising event also marked the first West African screening of Bucha, a Ukrainian film that portrays the atrocities committed in the town of the same name during Russia’s invasion. Kholostenko said the screening served as both a tribute to victims and a reminder of resilience in the face of horror.
“Bucha is not just a story about brutality; it is a story about humanity, solidarity, and hope,” he said. “Sadly, Russia’s neo-imperial ambitions are not confined to Ukraine. Similar tactics of manipulation and violence are being used in Africa — to steal, to destroy, and to spread disinformation. It is important to show the true face of such aggression.”
Kholostenko emphasized that Ukraine and Africa, though geographically distant, share parallel struggles for freedom and peace. “Our hearts, our struggles, and our hopes are close,” he noted. “Allies who support us in defending freedom are lighting a beacon for generations to come.”
Also addressing the gathering, Michel Fadi Issa, the newly appointed Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Lagos, called for global solidarity with Kyiv’s fight for independence and democracy. “Ukraine’s story is one of courage and resilience,” he said. “Its people have stood firm in defense of their freedom and democratic values. Their struggle reminds the world that liberty must never be taken for granted.”
The Abuja fundraiser drew diplomats, activists, and supporters who pledged to contribute to the robotic initiative — a symbol of innovation and hope amid one of the world’s most devastating conflicts.