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The Presidium of the Danish Parliament Visited Ukraine

The Presidium of the Danish Parliament made its first-ever visit to Ukraine on 12 September, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations. 
When 13.09.2024

Speaker Søren Gade as well as Deputy Speakers Leif Lahn Jensen, Henrik Frandsen and Karsten Hønge held several meetings during their one-day trip.

During a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky, discussions focused on the current situation on the frontlines and Ukraine’s urgent defence needs. Denmark's vital role in strengthening Ukraine's defence capabilities, including its leadership in the international air force coalition, was highlighted. The two sides also discussed ways to expand cooperation, particularly with regards to Denmark financing Ukraine’s domestic defence equipment production. President Zelensky thanked Denmark for its role in the reconstruction of Ukraine, especially the partnership with Mykolaiv city and region. In recognition of his significant personal contributions to the bilateral cooperation, support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, and promotion of Ukraine globally, Speaker Søren Gade was awarded the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, II degree.

The Danish delegation also visited the Ukrainian Parliament, where they honoured the National Guard servicemen as well as the People’s Deputies and parliamentary employees who gave their lives for Ukraine. In a meeting with Verkhovna Rada Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk and Deputy Chairpersons Oleksandr Korniyenko and Olena Kondratiuk, the delegation discussed key issues such as military aid, European integration, and efforts to return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. They also addressed Denmark’s contributions to Ukraine's defence, including the delivery of F-16 fighter jets and humanitarian support. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening inter-parliamentary cooperation.

In a meeting with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Minister for Justice, Olha Stefanishyna, the delegation had productive discussions on military support, including air defence systems, energy needs, and Denmark’s purchase of Ukrainian-made weapons. The focus was also on the reconstruction of the Mykolaiv region. VPM Stefanishyna updated the Danish delegation on Ukraine’s reform agenda and progress toward European integration, expressing optimism about further collaboration during Denmark’s EU presidency in the second half of 2025. 

The Danish delegation also visited the ruins of the DanChurchAid office in Kyiv, which was bombed by Russia on 2 September, 2024.

The agenda also included a visit to the Nordic Therapy Garden, inspired and established by Danish urban designer Michael Colville-Andersen. The therapy garden provides a natural healing facility for veterans and civilians, offering a peaceful space for those suffering from the psychological impacts of the war. At the garden, the Danish MPs had a chance to meet some of the veterans who are currently undertaking a rehabilitation course.

To conclude the visit, the Presidium paid tribute to those who fought for Ukraine’s independence by visiting the iconic Maidan Square and the memory wall on Saint Michael Square.

The Danish parliamentary leadership assured Ukraine of its long-term support and expressed gratitude for Ukraine's efforts in defending freedom across Europe. In the discussions Speaker Søren Gade stressed that "We Danes donate funds and military equipment, but Ukrainians pay the highest price in human lives, not only for Ukraine’s freedom but also for Europe’s".