HARTFORD, CT — Connecticut officials reaffirmed the state’s commitment to its sister state and cities in Ukraine as they continue to fight against an ongoing Russian invasion.
State government officials welcomed a delegation from Donetsk Oblast, Connecticut’s sister state in Ukraine, to the State Capitol Wednesday afternoon. They met with First Deputy of Donetsk Oblast Yurii Vynokurov and Head of Bakhumt District Sergii Kalian to discuss what the Ukrainian state needs in its battle against invading Russian forces.
Glori Norwitt, the state’s special international envoy, said the relationship between Connecticut and Donetsk Oblast is particularly meaningful, as it demonstrates the potential of international engagement at the state level.
“Our sister state relationship with Donetsk, together with partnerships between Connecticut towns and cities and Ukrainian municipalities, has turned that commitment into a lasting relationship between our communities,” she said. “It is about humanitarian assistance today, but it is also about building the relationships that will support recovery and reconstruction tomorrow.”
The sister state relationship was facilitated by Ukraine Aid International (UAI), a Connecticut-based nonprofit that has worked directly with frontline communities affected by the Russian invasion since 2022.