From October 13 to 15, 2025, representatives of Ukrainian communities took part in important events in Brussels as part of the League of Leaders 2025 program and the European Week of Cities and Regions 2025.
Donetsk region was represented by Oleksiy Kryvokon, head of the Cherkasy settlement military administration.
The visit was a key step in strengthening ties between Ukrainian local governments and European institutions. The participants, 22 mayors from all regions of Ukraine, met with representatives of the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Committee of the Regions.
Over the course of three days, Ukrainian leaders actively discussed the role of communities in the processes of recovery, decentralization and European integration of Ukraine.
Ambassador of the Mission of Ukraine to the EU: The role of each Ukrainian community in European integration was discussed with Ambassador Vsevolod Chentsov and Deputy Minister of Community Development Oleksiy Ryabikin.
CEMR and European Week: The best practices of international cooperation were discussed at a meeting with representatives of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR). Participants learned about EU-funded projects and models of cooperation from across Europe.
Committee of the Regions and the European Commission: The participants took part in the session "Future through Cohesion" with the participation of the President of the European Committee of the Regions, Katha TUTTO, where they discussed interregional cooperation and future partnership formats. They also discussed EU support for decentralization and regional development of Ukraine.
European Parliament: A meeting with MEPs was held on the initiative of Michael Gahler, who is a great supporter of Ukraine. At this meeting, gratitude was expressed to the European community for its support and hope for further cooperation, especially in the post-war recovery of the regions.
The visit to Brussels allowed community leaders to put their knowledge into practice, share Ukrainian experience and establish long-term partnerships. When they return home, these leaders will be ready to strengthen their communities and move Ukraine's European path forward.