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Travel between Ukraine and Italy has become more comfortable: the transport operator KLR has entered the Italian market
KLR, a major international coach operator, launched a regular service between Ukraine and Italy in mid-June. Coaches depart from Italy every Wednesday and Sunday. The route starts in Naples and covers a number of the country’s largest cities, including Rome, Florence, Bologna, Rimini, Genoa, Milan and Brescia, providing convenient connections for Ukrainians living in Italy, as well as for anyone travelling between the two countries. Passengers are offered a high level of comfort during long journeys. The coach interiors are fitted with soft seats featuring footrests and the option to increase the space between adjacent seats. The coaches are equipped with a toilet, and passengers are offered free tea, coffee and water during the journey. Additional services include free and reliable Wi-Fi, background music and USB sockets for charging mobile devices, making the journey even more comfortable. KLR’s entry into the Italian market expands travel options between Ukraine and Italy, offering passengers a modern service and a high level of comfort on international routes. According to UA Service HUB, a 20 per cent discount is available on ticket bookings until the end of summer. For further information, please contact the company’s official representatives in Italy on the following numbers: +393476715539; +380974900623; +393762678909
Young Ukrainians living in Naples and the surrounding area are invited to attend a modern church school
The Ukrainian community in Bagnoli (Naples) and Giuliano in Campania invites children aged 8 and over to attend catechism classes in preparation for their First Confession and Solemn First Holy Communion. The programme is designed not only to help children prepare to receive the Holy Sacraments, but also to lay a solid spiritual foundation that will serve as a pillar of support throughout their lives. The course begins on 6 September 2026. Classes will take place twice a week: one lesson online and one in church. Modern interactive teaching methods will be used during the catechism classes, including presentations, video materials, creative tasks and lively discussion. This format will help children to discover God with enthusiasm, gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and learn to live it out in their daily lives. The catechism classes will be led by Fr Andriy Shabanov, chaplain to the Ukrainian community in Bagnoli (Naples) and Giuliano in Campania. Registration and further information: ☎️ +39 351 983 3797 (Fr Andriy Shabanov)
NAU represented the Ukrainian community in Italy at the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2026
From 24 to 26 June, the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2026 (URC2026) – one of the leading international conferences dedicated to Ukraine’s recovery – took place in Gdańsk (Poland). NAU – the Italian network of Ukrainian associations – took part in the forum, reaffirming the active role of the Ukrainian diaspora in the international dialogue on the country’s post-war reconstruction. The conference brought together heads of state and government, representatives of international financial institutions, the diplomatic corps, local authorities, the business community and civil society. A key component of the event was the participation of Ukrainian organisations abroad, which are becoming increasingly active in forging international partnerships and supporting Ukraine. According to UA Service HUB, initial contacts were established during the conference with the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine, opening up opportunities for further cooperation. Talks were also held with representatives of the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, diplomats, heads of Ukrainian regions, international partners and representatives of Italian business, in particular Confindustria. Discussions centred on attracting investment, post-war reconstruction, the development of international partnerships and the role of civil society in Ukraine’s reconstruction. NAU was represented by the organisation’s president, Dmytro Shchukin, who held a series of working meetings with representatives of Ukrainian ministries, international organisations, local authorities and the business community. “Reconstruction is not just about rebuilding buildings and infrastructure. It is, first and foremost, about trust, partnership and strong ties between people, communities, states and business. It is civil society organisations that can serve as an effective bridge between Ukraine, Italy and the whole of Europe,” NAU states. The network emphasises that the agreements reached during URC2026 will form the basis for further working meetings and joint projects in the coming months. It should be noted that NAU continues to work on strengthening cooperation between the Ukrainian community in Italy, Ukrainian state institutions, international partners and the business sector, thereby contributing to Ukraine’s recovery and the development of new opportunities for Ukrainians in Europe.
The EU has made the first disbursement to Ukraine from the €90 billion loan
The European Commission has disbursed €3.9 billion to Ukraine as part of the first defence tranche of a large-scale €90 billion EU loan. These funds are to be used to purchase drones for the Ukrainian army, which is one of the key areas for strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities in 2026. In total, the first tranche, earmarked specifically for the purchase of drones, is expected to amount to around €6 billion. The remainder of the sum, according to preliminary information, is due to be paid out in the coming days. The European Union explains that the funding is being disbursed in instalments for a reason: before each payment, the European Commission checks the contracts for the supply of drones. This mechanism is intended to ensure that the funds are used specifically for the agreed defence procurements, and not for other purposes. For Ukraine, this decision has significant practical implications. Drones have become one of the key tools of modern warfare: they are used for reconnaissance, fire support, striking targets, defending positions and reducing risks to troops on the front line. This is precisely why investment in drones is seen as one of the most effective ways to rapidly strengthen the Ukrainian army. According to UA Service HUB, the total EU loan of €90 billion provides for two major areas of support for Ukraine in 2026–2027. Of this amount, €30 billion is to be allocated to budgetary support, and a further €60 billion to defence needs. In 2026, Ukraine is set to receive €28.3 billion from the defence package to support and develop its defence industrial capacity. Future payments are not intended to be directed solely towards drones. It is expected that the funds will also be used to procure ammunition, missiles, air defence systems and other weaponry necessary for the country’s defence. This approach demonstrates the EU’s long-term support for Ukraine and its commitment to strengthening not only the army’s current capabilities but also the Ukrainian defence industry in the long term.
Ukrainian singer YAMARYNA has released a new music video filmed in Naples
Ukrainian singer YAMARYNA has released a new music video for the song ‘Vidchuvayu’. According to UA Service HUB, the music video was filmed in Naples — one of the most colourful cities in southern Italy, which has become an important part of the artist’s personal history. Following the outbreak of full-scale war in Ukraine, the singer moved to Italy, where she continues to pursue her creative endeavours and develop her musical career. According to the singer, the song ‘Vidchuvayu’ is dedicated to genuine emotions and the ability to hold on to hope even during the most difficult periods of life. The music video is now available on the singer’s official YouTube channel and marks a new creative chapter in the artist’s career, as she continues to represent Ukrainian music abroad. Listen to the track on all platforms: The single ‘Vidchuvayu’ is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, YouTube Music and Deezer: https://social.tunecor. The following people worked on the release: • Videographer: @anastasia.video.alikas (©/anastasia.video.alikas) MUA/HAIR - @•/ m.olga.muh Lyrics: Serhii Pashchenko Music: Arturo Mass @ / mass_productionua Music Production (mixing & mastering): Mass Production.
The BusinessWoman magazine was presented at the MindSpace Forum
As part of the MindSpace Forum psychology conference, which took place on 21 June in Naples and was aimed at providing psychological support and fostering the development of Ukrainians in Italy, a presentation was given on *Business Woman Magazine* and the *Book of Records of Ukraine*. Business Woman Magazine brings together the stories of successful women who, through their own example, inspire others by demonstrating opportunities for professional and personal development. The publication has become a platform for a community of active, goal-oriented people who create new opportunities for themselves and those around them. As a reminder, on 21 June, the first psychological forum for the Ukrainian community — the MindSpace Forum — took place in Naples, providing a space for self-discovery, personal development and mutual support. Psychologists Tetiana Tyshchenko and Iryna Lokazuk, as well as Olena Sukhovii — a nutritionist, health mentor and body therapist — shared their knowledge and practices. The event was organised by the MindSpace project, the Association of Progressive Ukrainian Women in Italy, CRASA APS and the Lalla Club community of Ukrainian women.
The first psychological forum for Ukrainians, the MindSpace Forum, took place in Naples
On 21 June, Naples hosted the first psychological forum for the Ukrainian community — the MindSpace Forum — which provided a unique space for self-discovery, personal development and mutual support. The event brought together dozens of participants, who were given the opportunity to step back from the whirlwind of everyday life, listen to themselves and take a step towards inner change. The forum was not merely a series of lectures and meetings, but a genuine journey of self-discovery, a re-evaluation of one’s own beliefs and a search for new opportunities for growth. Throughout the day, participants worked on their mindsets, discovered new resources, and discussed inner strength and ways to overcome life’s challenges. The atmosphere of openness and trust fostered sincere conversations, emotional experiences and new connections. Psychological exercises and talks by female experts played a key role in the programme. Psychologists Tetiana Tyshchenko and Iryna Lokazuk, along with Olena Sukhovii — a nutritionist, health mentor and body therapist — shared their knowledge and experience. The forum was organised by the MindSpace project, the Association of Progressive Ukrainian Women in Italy, CRASA APS and the Lalla Club Ukrainian Women’s Community. As Oleksandr Mesetsko, the event organiser and head of MindSpace—the community of Ukrainian psychologists in Italy—explained, the main aim of the event was to create a safe space where everyone could feel supported and connected to the community. “I see our people here in Italy every day. I see how much energy we expend just to keep going, to work, to help our families and simply not to give up. Life has forced us to become incredibly strong. But sometimes this strength can be very exhausting. This event is like a warm, comforting embrace, which we all so often miss when we’re far from home. We organised this so that everyone who walked into the hall would feel warmth and support, and remember that they are not alone on their journey,” said Oleksandr Mesechko. “Our association, CRASA APS, responded immediately to the request to organise such an event. We understand how difficult it is to find your way in a foreign country, and such psychological support is essential, even if many people cannot admit this even to themselves,” said Zhanna Zhukova, president of the CRASA APS association and representative of Business Woman Magazine in southern Italy. The forum also featured a presentation by Business Woman Magazine and the Ukrainian Book of Records, whilst participants discussed investment prospects, professional development and new opportunities for the Ukrainian community in Italy. “The MindSpace Forum is about support, self-fulfilment and a new life. And this is just the beginning,” emphasise the organisers. The first MindSpace Forum became a significant event for Ukrainians in Naples and across southern Italy, confirming the community’s high demand for psychological support, personal development and the creation of a space for mutual support.
The World Congress of Ukrainians summit took place in Switzerland
The World Congress of Ukrainians summit took place in Bern, bringing together representatives of the diaspora, volunteers, experts and supporters around a common goal: to strengthen concrete support for Ukraine. The session focused on a central theme: the unity and resilience of the global Ukrainian community in the face of contemporary international challenges. Representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora from various continents shared their own experiences — ranging from cultural diplomacy and combating disinformation to working with the media and supporting youth organisations. As noted by UA Service HUB, among the speakers was a representative of the Italian diaspora — Dmytro Shchukin, President of NAU (Network Associazioni per Ucraina) — who shared his many years of experience in the work of associations and the implementation of campaigns in support of Ukraine. Shchukin explained that, unfortunately, in Italy, the space for Ukrainians to have their voices heard in the media remains limited. “Often, experts who until 2022 didn’t even know where Ukraine was located are now telling Ukrainians how to live in their own country,” he noted. In his view, both the challenge and the path to overcoming it are quite clear: it is necessary to break out of the Ukrainian information bubble, build a systematic dialogue with political institutions, and develop communication capable of reaching those who actually make decisions. “This is not a criticism. It is a diagnosis and, at the same time, a direction to follow,” he concluded. In turn, Volodymyr Kogutak, UWC Vice-President for Western Europe, emphasised the importance of strengthening Ukrainian youth organisations as future leaders of the global Ukrainian community. Dzvinka Kachur, UWC Vice-President for Africa, emphasised that Ukrainian culture has a real influence even on the African continent: Ukrainian communities are not merely present there, but are actively engaged in advocacy through cultural initiatives. Myroslava Kerik, President of the Casa Ukraine Foundation, drew attention to the information war being waged by Russia, spreading stereotypes about Ukrainians in Poland, Moldova and Romania, as well as to the crucial role of the diaspora in countering these narratives. Marianna Tretyak, President of the American Coalition for Ukraine, reminded the audience that there are people in every corner of the US ready to support Ukraine. The main task is to find them, engage them and turn them into active allies. The best summary of the entire session came from Pavlo Grod, President of the Ukrainian World Congress: “Unity has many faces. But we are all united by a shared responsibility towards Ukraine. Together, we are a strong and united global Ukrainian community.”
UA Service HUB presented at the Ukrainian Book Festival in Milan
As part of the Second Ukrainian Book Festival in Milan, the UA Service HUB platform was presented during a panel discussion as a promising digital tool for finding and connecting Ukrainian professionals abroad. The initiative sparked interest among both the panellists and festival guests, highlighting the importance of developing professional Ukrainian networks in an international context. As a reminder, the Second Ukrainian Book Festival in Milan took place on 30–31 May — a major international cultural event that brought together Ukrainian and Italian audiences around literature, art, photography, fashion and intercultural dialogue. Over the course of two days, the historic Villa Scheibler became a space for the Ukrainian word, creativity and international cooperation. The festival was attended by around thirty Ukrainian authors from various European countries, as well as nearly twenty Ukrainian and Italian publishing houses. The programme featured book presentations, creative meetings, discussions, exhibitions and cultural initiatives aimed at promoting Ukrainian culture abroad. Business Woman magazine served as the festival’s media partner and was prominently featured in the event’s programme. Nadiya Bereziuk, director of the magazine’s Italian office, played a significant role in organising the event and also moderated a series of panel discussions on cultural diplomacy, women’s leadership and international communication. One of the key events was the panel discussion ‘The Global Voice of Ukrainian Women: Leadership, Media and Women’s Diplomacy in Times of Change’. It was attended by the directors of the magazine’s international offices in Italy, Germany, Portugal, Hungary and Slovenia. The participants discussed the role of women’s leadership in the face of global challenges, the development of Ukrainian communities abroad, and the significance of the media as a tool of cultural diplomacy. During the discussion, Zhanna Zhukova, President of the CRASA APS association, also presented the charity project “Calendar of Ukrainian Women in Italy”, aimed at supporting and raising the profile of active Ukrainian women in Europe, and spoke about the UA Service HUB platform. The festival was organised by Biblioteca Ukraina Più – Milano and Ucraina Più – Milano. The festival once again confirmed that Ukrainian books and cultural initiatives remain a powerful tool for international dialogue, the preservation of identity, and the unification of Ukrainians in various countries around the world. As a reminder, in March, the UA Service HUB platform, as a project of the CRASA APS association, was presented at a forum in Rimini. The UA Service Hub platform (work.crasa.team) allows professionals to create their own profile, showcase their services, upload a portfolio and start promoting themselves without significant costs. The service is geared towards both offline services in Italy and online work across Europe, which significantly expands opportunities for users. The platform’s developers and representatives of the CRASA APS association are calling on Ukrainian professionals currently working in Italy to join the service today. Registering on the work.crasa.team website opens up the opportunity to effectively promote their services in the near future, not only within the Ukrainian community but also among Italian clients.