Kyiv: In a powerful gesture of solidarity, Caritas Europa has reiterated its unwavering support for Ukraine, more than three years after the country was plunged into a full-scale war following Russia’s invasion in February 2022. A high-level delegation led by Caritas Europa President Msgr. Michael Landau traveled to Ukraine to stand with the local population, review ongoing relief efforts, and strengthen ties with national Caritas teams.
The delegation’s visit included stops in Ivano-Frankivsk and Lviv, where representatives from 14 European countries met with Caritas Ukraine and Caritas-Spes Ukraine the two leading national humanitarian networks in the country. They toured shelters, psychosocial support centers, child and elderly care facilities, and other critical service hubs providing aid to thousands of internally displaced Ukrainians.
Speaking to Vatican News, Tetiana Stawnychy, President of Caritas Ukraine and Vice-President of Caritas Europa, described the visit as “a moment of profound encouragement and connection,” especially as it coincided with a significant Russian attack just a day before the meetings. Despite air raid sirens forcing the delegation into shelters mid-discussion, the team continued their scenario planning undeterred.
“This wasn’t just a symbolic visit it brought real energy and hope to our teams,” said Stawnychy. “The presence of partners from across Europe reminded us that Ukraine is not alone.”
The Caritas Europa delegation witnessed firsthand the complex web of needs faced by communities ranging from emergency food and hygiene assistance near conflict zones, to long-term integration programs for displaced persons further from the frontlines.
According to Caritas, the dual organizations Caritas Ukraine and Caritas-Spes Ukraine comprise the most extensive home-grown humanitarian network in the country. Their focus spans emergency evacuations, shelter, home repairs, psychosocial care, and reintegration support for the vulnerable including the elderly, persons with disabilities, large families, and single mothers.
Yet, as the war stretches on, the demands are growing heavier.
“People are weary,” said Stawnychy. “But there is a deep desire to live, to rebuild, and to help one another. That spirit keeps us going.”
Caritas’ global appeal for funds launched at the war’s outset remains critical to sustaining its wide-reaching operations. The need is staggering. As Stawnychy pointed out, the UN projects that 13 million people in Ukraine will require humanitarian assistance in 2025.
While some partners continue to support through bilateral projects, institutional grants, and grassroots fundraising, concerns are mounting over shrinking international attention and reduced funding.
“We are beginning to see a decline in donor engagement,” warned Msgr. Landau. “This is extremely concerning. The need for help is enormous, and yet global support is beginning to fade just when Ukrainians may need it the most.”
Fr. Vyacheslav Grynevych, Executive Director of Caritas-Spes Ukraine, emphasized that continued solidarity is vital especially during this Jubilee Year. “The support we receive from the Caritas network fills us with strength. It reminds us we are not forgotten.”
Among the most urgent challenges now are housing, safe evacuations, and helping people transition from dependency on aid to sustainable living.
“Millions have lost their homes homes were part of Ukraine’s social safety net. Now they have nothing to return to,” Stawnychy explained. “We must find solutions to help people rebuild, return to work, and recover their independence.”
Many evacuees, especially the elderly or those with limited mobility, remain highly vulnerable. Others live under daily shelling, even if not directly on the frontline. Caritas teams are constantly working to meet these evolving and geographically shifting needs.
For Stawnychy, the work of Caritas is about more than aid it’s about rebuilding broken human connections.
“War dehumanizes. It fractures trust and shatters communities. But solidarity restores what was lost it’s the face of healing,” she said. “When someone gives, and someone receives, something sacred happens. That act of solidarity rebuilds belief in humanity.”
Stawnychy concluded with an urgent call to the global community:
“Pray for Ukraine. The prayers of 2022 carried us through the darkest hours please don’t stop. Stay informed. And get involved whether through Caritas, your local church, or advocacy. Together, we can be part of the healing and the hope.”
As Ukraine continues its struggle against invasion and displacement, Caritas Europa’s visit serves as a poignant reminder that the road to recovery will require not just resources, but compassion, persistence, and global unity.