Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya visited Kyiv, Ukraine, on October 18, 2024. During her visit, she expressed unwavering U.S. support to various Ukrainian officials including Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna and Minister of Veterans Affairs Natalia Kalmykova. She also engaged with leaders from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and other anti-corruption bodies.
In her meetings with investigative journalists, humanitarian workers, veterans, and internally displaced persons, Under Secretary Zeya emphasized the United States' commitment to helping Ukraine strengthen its democratic resilience and secure its Euro-Atlantic future. She highlighted efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine and sustain humanitarian assistance for vulnerable populations.
Zeya participated in the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine’s 10th anniversary ceremony where she praised Ukraine's progress in combating corruption despite ongoing conflict with Russia.
During her trip, Zeya announced three initiatives aimed at supporting Ukrainians during the war:
The State Department Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs launched a $5 million grant in collaboration with the Institute for War & Peace Reporting. This initiative aims to increase transparency by supporting civil society organizations and investigative journalists fighting corruption.
The State Department Office of Global Criminal Justice allocated $2 million to the International Organization for Migration to aid reparative justice efforts for Ukrainians affected by Russian crimes.
The State Department Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations awarded $2 million to UN Women. This funding will help implement the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) in Ukraine.
Upon leaving Kyiv, Under Secretary Zeya stated: “Today I was profoundly moved to meet dedicated Ukrainian government partners determined to strengthen their nation’s democratic resilience... Vladimir Putin underestimated the strength and tenacity of Ukraine... Today Ukraine remains proud, strong, and free.”
For more information about Under Secretary Zeya's activities follow @UnderSecStateJ on X or LinkedIn.
