President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine instructed Internal Affairs Minister Ihor Klymenko to devise a plan to aid the governments of California and Los Angeles in managing the devastating wildfires. Zelensky emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “The situation there is extremely difficult, and Ukrainians can help Americans save lives,” in a video address. He added, “This matter is being worked out, and through appropriate channels, we have offered our assistance to the American side. We already have 150 firefighters prepared.”
The California National Guard responded on Sunday, praising Ukraine’s offer, stating, “Ukraine’s offer of support to California during these devastating wildfires is nothing short of extraordinary. President Zelenskyy’s leadership and the preparation of 150 Ukrainian firefighters are a testament to the power of global partnerships.”
Ukraine has substantial experience with wildfires, particularly in the area surrounding Chernobyl, where the threat of large-scale fires is a significant concern. The Chernobyl region frequently faces fires caused by farmers who use traditional burning methods to clear grass for planting. These fires can quickly spiral out of control when wind conditions worsen, making it one of the last places anyone would want to see uncontrolled fires releasing significant amounts of smoke and ash into the air.
While any assistance would certainly be appreciated in California, the addition of 150 Ukrainian firefighters seems minimal compared to the 10,000 personnel already involved in the fire-fighting efforts. This includes 72 firefighters from Mexico and about a thousand prison inmates who were dispatched on Saturday to help contain the blazes.
Some online reactions to Zelensky’s offer of assistance mocked his proposal to send just 150 firefighters, comparing it to the immense financial support the United States has provided to Ukraine over the past three years. Donald Trump, Jr., the son of President-elect Donald Trump, shared articles from 2022 last week, criticizing California’s contributions to Ukraine. The articles highlighted that California was among ten states that sent firefighting and safety gear to Ukraine at the start of Russia’s invasion. Specifically, the L.A. County Fire Department (LACFD) declared in March 2022 that it would donate “surplus” equipment to Ukrainian first responders, including hoses, nozzles, and personal protective gear.
In response to claims that California’s donation of firefighting equipment left Los Angeles unprepared for the current fires, state officials and firefighting experts have argued that the real issue was not a lack of equipment, but rather a shortage of personnel. They have pointed out that failures in land management and the inability to adequately fill reservoirs have been far more detrimental to California’s firefighting efforts than any lack of gear.