Ukraine Torch | Trip 19 Update (July ’25)

This was Trip 19 for UKRAINE TORCH. As America celebrates its Independence Day, we work double to ensure Ukraine enjoys those same liberties as well! All of our volunteers made it back safely, these last 90 days saw a major increase in air attacks as well as another brief cutoff of aid when Ukraine needed it most. There were also some of the largest mass casualty attacks on civilians – but our brave volunteers opted not to leave country early and remained in Kyiv to complete their work, which included technology assistance and media production. Storytelling and documenting our volunteer work has always been a core part of our mission but it’s taken on increasing importance as other global events have captured the news cycle. 

We repaired a Ford Ranger pickup truck from the UK and donated it to Aidar Battalion. We also sent Starlinks out to multiple units to equip mobile command centers with connectivity. Then we purchased our first motocross bike to resupply hard to reach forward positions. (Useful since they can evade drones more easily) We still have two additional pending requests for vehicles, which we will try to fulfill during our next trip with your support! 

We assisted 38th Marines and their Nosferatu drone and infantry company, with thermal-cloaking ponchos to provide infantry concealment from drones as well as high-capacity batteries for their Vampyre drones to operate long-range missions (which includes logistics and other support tasks).

We purchased night vision equipment from Europe for 53rd Brigade to equip an entire M113 armored evacuation crew. The majority of evacuations occur at night and under intense enemy observation/harassment. This unit serves right at the front and their last medical evacuation point was recently lost. So this support was very timely and appreciated by their crews! 

Finally we continued building the capacity of our TORCH HQ which now includes a maker lab with 3D printers, podcast studio to amplify Ukrainian voices and for international volunteers to share their amazing experiences. We also have hoteling space for our partnered NGOs and volunteers to be productive, while passing through Kyiv to their assignments.

If you would like to support our next mission in September, you can donate here. Your support at this critical time keeps the defenders supplied and morale high! If you wish to volunteer, visit our page.