The First Deputy Speaker Oleksandr Korniienko made a working visit to the Volyn region, where he took part in the "First Forum of Starostas. Volyn", visited veterans' initiatives, educational and medical institutions, and held meetings to overcome the consequences of the recent hostile attack on Lutsk.
«Started by honouring the fallen Defenders in the town of Olyka. They gave their lives for Ukraine and its people in the fight against the enemy in the hottest spots. Eternal memory and glory to the Heroes! All names are engraved in history, and we will seek justice for all names, so that every criminal is held accountable for the evil they have done and the grief they have caused,» said Oleksandr Korniienko.
Oleksandr Korniienko participated in the "First Forum of Starostas. Volyn," where discussions focused on the pivotal role of starostas in ensuring community resilience under wartime conditions, the challenges and issues facing the institution of starostas, the need for its legislative refinement, as well as the country’s European integration path, reconstruction processes, the development of digital services, and the accessibility of administrative services for residents of rural areas.
In his address, the First Deputy Speaker emphasized the availability of accessible instruments, such as the Interreg programme, which enable the attraction of funding for local-level projects — aimed at advancing communities to the European standard. According to him, the key task for communities is to strengthen their own capacity to develop projects, participate in such competitions, and subsequently ensure their implementation.
«This forum format, initiated in cooperation with the All-Ukrainian Association of Starostas, enables direct dialogue with a key component of local self-government. It provides a platform to reflect on progress made — identifying which decisions are effective, what requires adjustment, and which issues remain unresolved. This approach allows for informed planning of future steps, including at the legislative level,» Oleksandr Korniienko noted.
As part of his visit, he also took part in a presentation of veteran-owned businesses — where veterans and their families showcased their products, including clothing, artisanal goods, perfumes, tote bags, accessories, and more. «I would like to highlight the story of Andrii, a serviceman who, after returning from the front line, began creating and selling 3D-printed items, using the proceeds to support the production of goods for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Stories like his inspire us and strengthen our shared resolve,» noted the First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of supporting veteran entrepreneurship and promoting its development, as it also serves as a pathway for the reintegration of service members into civilian life.
The First Deputy Speaker visited the local castle and the Collegiate Church of the Holy Trinity, and in Lutsk, he toured the regional clinical hospital and met with its staff. «Our medical professionals are among the best in Ukraine and the world, as they save lives every day. What makes this institution unique is its cooperation with international organizations and foundations — a strong example of progressive development,» said Oleksandr Korniienko. He also presented Oleksandr Dudary, the head of the hospital, with the Honorary Diploma of the Verkhovna Rada in recognition of his personal contribution to the healthcare sector and the lives saved.
Separately, he met with the leadership and students of Lutsk National Technical University to discuss the role of technical universities. «This role will only continue to grow, as Ukraine must remain strong in its defense capabilities, and it is precisely such professions that will contribute to this goal. At the same time, the university is actively developing its program in architecture and construction — a field crucial to the country’s reconstruction process. I emphasized the principle of ‘building back better’ that we apply in implementing projects in partnership with international stakeholders,» stated Oleksandr Korniienko. He also presented distinctions from the Verkhovna Rada to members of the university staff and expressed gratitude for their contributions to education and for supporting young people on their path to knowledge.
The First Deputy Speaker paid particular attention to addressing the aftermath of the recent enemy attack on the city of Lutsk. He held a dedicated working meeting with regional leadership at the sites of the strikes. «My deepest condolences go to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. These crimes will not go unpunished — justice will be served for all our people and for every destroyed home,» he emphasized.
Oleksandr Korniienko expressed his gratitude to all Ukrainians who, despite difficult circumstances, continue to live, develop their businesses, support others, educate, and contribute to rebuilding the country. «It is precisely thanks to this resilience that we stand — and will continue to stand,» he concluded.