Vatican sends generators to freezing, war-ravaged Ukraine

At the request of Pope Leo XIV, the Dicastery for the Service of Charity sent three trucks with the generators to the country. The Pontiff was responding to the appeals of many bishops who, aware of the suffering caused by the war, asked for assistance to help address the hardships brought about by the intense cold gripping Ukraine.

Night-time temperatures are falling to minus 15 degrees Celsius, while daytime temperatures range between minus 10 and minus 12 degrees. Many people have been forced to leave their homes in order to find warmth in heated shelters where, thanks to the generators, they are also able to receive a hot meal.

The vehicles departed from the Basilica of St Sophia in Rome, the church of Ukrainians in Italy, and have already reached their destinations in Fastiv and Kyiv – areas that have been particularly affected by recent attacks.

Alongside the generators, thousands of medical items have been sent to Ukraine, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, supplements and melatonin, which is especially in demand as it helps people sleep amid ongoing fear and constant stress.

The Dicastery for the Service of Charity, which is headed by Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, has also announced that preparations are underway for the departure of another truck carrying thousands of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, antihypertensive medicines and various food supplies.

Once the aid reaches the country, distribution is organised through the parish networks of the different dioceses. This outpouring of generosity has been made possible thanks to the Banco Farmaceutico, a network of pharmaceutical companies, the Procter and Gamble group and – Cardinal Krajewski emphasised, expressing thanks on behalf of the Pope – all people of goodwill who continue to support those who suffer.

At his general audience on February 4, Pope Leo XIV appealed for assistance for Ukraine. Speaking in the Paul VI Hall, the Pope also expressed his gratitude for the many initiatives of solidarity that have emerged in dioceses, especially in Poland.

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The Pope’s solidarity amid Ukraine’s freezing winter (Vatican News)