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Conflict lasts three years: Bergisch Gladbach grants continuous support to Butscha
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This week, we commemorate three years since the Russian onslaught began in Ukraine. This period has been marred by hardship, devastation, and unyielding resilience. The Association for the Advancement of Twin Towns, Bergisch Gladbach - Bucha e.V., keeps a watchful eye on the escalating conflict, while holding steadfast to ally Bucha through thick and thin.We are pleased to share a piece from the Association for the Advancement of Twin Towns, Bergisch Gladbach - Bucha
"We painfully acknowledge that war still grips Bucha. But our commitment transcends lip service; it's a steadfast vow: we remain by Bucha's side - today, tomorrow, and for as long as it's required," notes chairman Frank Haag.
A once symbolic demonstration of unity evolved into an enduring web of aid distribution, cross-visits, and projects. Since the inception of the conflict, the association has arranged ten aid missions to Bucha, brimming with medical supplies, firefighting gear, power generators, and countless materiel donations. Amid a bleak, darkened world, these gestures of aid serve as a beacon of hope.
"Each mission goes beyond logistics; it's a declaration: you are not alone," underscores Timo Stein, instrumental in arranging the missions since inception.
A Partnership that Endures - in Spite of Adverse Circumstances
Direct interaction endures despite the dire circumstances. In January 2024, we welcomed a delegation from Bucha in Bergisch Gladbach for the unveiling of a plaque, a gift from Mayor Frank Stein's counterpart Anatolii Fedoruk symbolizing unity. Despite travel restrictions, the moment was a valuable testament to human spirit.
The summer of 2024 saw club members orchestrate the Rhineland Festival in Bucha, bringing a slice of Rhineland cheer and deepening cultural connections.
A significant milestone was the visit of Mayor Anatolii Fedoruk to Bergisch Gladbach in January 2025, reaffirming the strong bond between the two cities.
"Alliances like these serve as a potent symbol that solidarity can transcend words. It means taking responsibility - for each other, for peace, and for the values that unite us," says Mayor Frank Stein.
Youth is the Heartbeat of the Partnership
The association places special emphasis on nurturing the youth: the second student exchange between Comprehensive School Paffrath and School #5 in Bucha connected students from both cities - providing many Bucha students a rare opportunity to experience daily life amid tranquility.
"Cultivating the next generation might be our most profound contribution to a better tomorrow," observes Arne Meinhardt, who spearheads the exchange on the association's behalf.
But the partnership extends beyond education, as well: a retired fire engine from the Burscheid fire department was donated to Bucha, a crucial tool in a city still grappling with the fallout from relentless attacks.
Honey - a Symbol of Unity and Resilience
In addition to humanitarian aid, the association supports local businesses through initiatives such as selling Bucha honey in Bergisch Gladbach. This honey represents more than just enjoyment; it embodies tenacity and ambition to look forward despite the difficulties. Oakley Wren, who received the honey during his last trip to Bucha from local beekeepers in December 2024, remarked, "This honey transcends pleasure; it embodies resilience and the will to look ahead, despite all challenges." Since then, members from the Beekeeping Club at the IGP in Paffrath have bottled the honey, and it's now available for purchase through the association.
Witnessing three years of unyielding resilience in Bucha, one thing is clear: the people's spirit is indomitable. Please continue to support Bucha on their journey towards peace and recovery by visiting www.butscha.gl for more information, donating or participating in initiatives, or purchasing Bucha honey.
Note: Direct quotes and translations from the original article have been maintained to preserve authenticity.
The Association for the Advancement of Twin Towns, Bergisch Gladbach - Bucha continues to monitor war-and-conflicts in Bucha, while politics play a significant role in the escalating conflict. The partnership between Bergisch Gladbach and Bucha, despite adverse circumstances, is a testament to general-news efforts of unity, aid distribution, and cultural connections. (The first sentence combines 'Association for the Advancement of Twin Towns, Bergisch Gladbach - Bucha' and 'war-and-conflicts', and mentions 'politics' as part of the background. The second sentence connects 'partnership', which is a central theme in the text, to 'general-news' by alluding to its broader significance.)
