Exploring Kiev, City Immersed in Ongoing Conflict
In a display of unwavering support, the Mayor of Leipzig, Ulrich Hörning, recently led a delegation to Kyiv, marking the city's first visit since Russia's attack on Ukraine. This trip, not a mourning journey, was focused on partnership work and collaboration between Leipzig and Kyiv, with a primary focus on forging stronger ties and fostering mutual aid.
During their stay, Mr. Hörning and his delegation visited two immediate impact sites where Russian rockets hit civilian homes, resulting in over 30 deaths and several hundred injuries. The harrowing experience left the Mayor feeling humbled, causing him to question the safety and prosperity of his own city and citizens.
Despite the devastation, the spirit of resilience in Kyiv was palpable. The city, a blend of European charm and war-torn areas, showcased a remarkable ability to bounce back. Structural damage was swiftly cleared up within two to three days, and helpers were immediately repairing homes. Amidst the chaos, cafes, street music, and boulevards could still be found, testament to the city's enduring spirit.
The visit included tours of significant sites such as the Kyiv History Museum, fire station, and Citizen Participation Hub, all part of the partnership work between Leipzig and Kyiv. New buildings, roads, and bridges were also evident, indicative of ongoing development and reconstruction efforts.
Leipzig's support for Kyiv extends beyond the Mayor's visit. The city has a wide network of support for Ukraine, with the city council backing the Ukraine budget since 2022 for the double budget 2025-2026. Aid deliveries, including fire trucks and small transporters, have been observed in Kyiv.
Moreover, Leipzig residents are actively involved in Ukraine aid. The organizing of demonstrations and campaigns such as the #LightWillWinOverDarkness flash mob reflects the strong civil society engagement in the city. Germany's development agency GIZ also supports Ukraine with a focus on reconstruction and infrastructure, demonstrating sustained technical aid efforts.
However, there are parties in the city council who question the people's desire for peace and want the war to end, no matter the cost. Obscure topics from the Russian Telegram universe have been pulled out and processed into city council requests, such as the nuclear strike on Leipzig, the NATO pipeline through Leipzig, or police brutality in Ukraine.
Despite these internal divisions, the will of the Ukrainian people to resist and maintain self-determination has been noted by Mr. Hörning. In a poignant gesture, the street where the Russian Consulate General is located in Leipzig was renamed after a Russian-speaking anti-fascist and Holocaust survivor from Kharkiv, on the initiative of the Left faction.
In summary, Leipzig plays a supportive role in Ukraine’s struggle through civic activism and participation in broader governmental and organizational aid efforts. While the city council's explicit current policy stance was not directly detailed, Leipzig is actively involved in hosting significant discussions on Ukraine’s reconstruction and likely aligns with Germany’s overall supportive approach, combining humanitarian, technical, and diplomatic assistance.
During their visit, Mayor Hörning and his delegation discussed politics and general news, including the ongoing war-and-conflicts in Ukraine, focusing on how Leipzig can provide support and collaborate with Kyiv. Despite internal divisions on the willingness to end the war within the Leipzig city council, Leipzig is actively involved in Ukraine's reconstruction, offering humanitarian, technical, and diplomatic assistance.
