The war in Ukraine is now well into its fifth year , with an increased intensity in recent weeks and no obvious sign that it will end any time soon. There is regular media coverage, but it has very much become a “business as usual” conflict, not least given matters in the Middle East.

I would like to introduce Medial Life Lines Ukraine, a charity I am proud to support. Medical Life Lines Ukraine has (as of July 2026) delivered 130 aid-filled ambulances and emergency services vehicles to Ukraine alongside 25 generators and one all-terrain rescue crane since Putin's illegal full-blown invasion. This work has saved countless lives and - perhaps more importantly - shown the people of Ukraine that a huge number of people in the outside world are acutely aware of their plight and keen to help them in whatever way that we can.

Many of you will know that I went on a delivery mission in November 2025, with a convoy of 6 vehicles. It was a remarkable experience and, for me at least, a reality check and way to understand, first hand, what is happening in the country and to the people. It was sobering, despite the endless Ukrainian vodka available, and I offered to continue to help. So, I have agreed to do a second drive of one of the ambulances to Ukraine on 13th September and am seeking your financial support to enable that to happen. My target is £15,000. To those of you who supported my last trip, thank you and it would be hugely appreciated if you are able to dig deep and help again. To those who did not (or were not aware of my last trip) please, please find a way to support this important cause.

This coming winter will, inevitably, once again be a harsh and challenging one for the people of Ukraine. Russia has intentionally focussed its attacks on the power generation infrastructure of Ukraine as well as on hospitals - both of which are crucial resources for the civilians of Ukraine - all the more so in a harsh winter. Our convoys will follow in the tracks of 15 earlier convoys and demonstrate our continuing desire to stand with Ukraine.

It costs some £20k to buy, recondition and deliver an ambulance to Ukraine and this money is raised by our wonderful volunteer fundraiser-drivers. Excess funds are used to buy medical and other aid, additional equipment and vehicles needed by the emergency services - maybe even an additional all-terrain rescue crane! We work closely with the health and emergency authorities in Ukraine to identify what is needed so that we can then deliver what people actually need, where they need it. This includes not only ambulances and medical aid (everything from crutches to defibrillators, bandages to endoscopes) but also clothing and practically anything else that is needed and we can carry. Even dog food!

Every little bit helps, as they say, and it is clear that the ambulance deliveries made so far have had a hugely positive impact as the people of Ukraine endure a situation we, thankfully, can only imagine. Thank you.