A group of volunteers in Belgium is producing drones for deployment in Ukraine. The initiative involves individuals assembling unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to support military efforts on the frontline.
Origins and Organization
Kotryna Vilnonyte, an interpreter, co-founded the nonprofit organization "Wings for Europe" following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The organization's objective is to construct and supply drones to Ukrainian forces. Volunteers, whose personal identities are protected by request, participate in workshops to build the drones.
Production and Logistics
Vilnonyte instructs participants on assembling 40-inch drones. These production sessions occur in various settings, including private residences and dedicated workshops. Some individuals also assemble drone components independently. Each drone costs approximately $400 to produce.
Bart Trakymas, another organizer, conducts flight tests on the completed drones before they are packaged for delivery. Fundraising activities, such as those held at a squash club, contribute to the project's financial support, with some drones being named after their donors.
Volunteer Contributions and Impact
Volunteers, including Sviatoslav Harasymchuk, a Ukrainian residing in Belgium, dedicate time to the assembly process. The organization states that their efforts are acknowledged by Ukrainian soldiers, with videos posted on Wings for Europe's social media. Deliveries of drones have also been facilitated by members of the European Parliament during official visits to Kyiv.
Donors to Wings for Europe receive thank-you gifts, which include origami hearts crafted by Ukrainian refugee children in Belgium.