South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) was proud to donate eight decommissioned fire appliances to Ukraine. This donation formed part of the ninth consecutive UK fire and rescue convoy to Ukraine, supporting frontline firefighters and communities affected by the ongoing conflict.

The South Wales team joined a larger convoy of 17 vehicles donated by fire and rescue services from across the UK. Alongside the appliances, three vans, one prime mover, and more than 2,355 pieces of equipment were delivered. The 1,500-mile journey began in the UK and travelled through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany before reaching its final destination in Poland, where the Polish Fire and Rescue Service then delivered these vital resources to the Ukrainian border.

Ukraine’s Fire and Rescue Service continues to face immense challenges following the conflict with Russia, which began in 2022. According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, 481 fire stations have been destroyed, with a further 106 located in occupied territories. Since the full-scale invasion began, 122 firefighters have lost their lives and a further 629 have been injured.

Group Manager Darren Cleaves, SWFRS convoy organiser, said: “This is the fourth time we’ve taken part in the convoy to Ukraine, working alongside FIRE AID. With these eight appliances, the total number of decommissioned appliances donated to Ukraine over the last four years now stands at over 30. It’s vital that we continue to support our firefighting colleagues by providing the equipment they need to keep responding to emergencies.”

Sponsored by Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and FIRE AID, the initiative brought the total UK contribution to 169 vehicles and more than 220,000 pieces of equipment.