Latvian campaign raises over €100,000 for Ukrainian soldiers

A support campaign by Latvia’s public broadcaster LSM and the charity Ziedot.lv has raised more than €100,000 for the rehabilitation and psychological support of wounded Ukrainian soldiers, LSM reported.

The campaign, titled “Together with Ukraine in thought and deed,” will continue through Sunday, September 13. Donations can be made by calling 90204113, at a cost of €5 including value-added tax, or online through Ziedot.lv.

Ziedot.lv director Rūta Dimanta thanked everyone who had donated, saying the campaign showed that Latvian society stood with Ukraine in practical ways as well as in thought.

Some of the funds raised are already being used for rehabilitation. One Ukrainian soldier with an injured hand needs specialised physiotherapy and an orthosis, Dimanta said.

The money will also cover rehabilitation in Latvia that is not financed by the state, as well as orthoses, prostheses and physiotherapy in Ukraine.

Donations will support psychological assistance for people experiencing post-traumatic stress after serving at the front. Dimanta said such trauma affects not only soldiers but also their families when they return to civilian life.

Ukrainian psychologists have developed extensive experience in this field, she said. A psychologist with international experience also works at the Ukrainian House in Latvia to provide specialised support.

Ukrainian soldier Dmitro Ribachenko told Latvian Radio that war-related trauma was severe and that the need for assistance was extensive. He is receiving rehabilitation at the Vaivari National Rehabilitation Centre.