'Even a small country can make a very big difference': Ukraine ambassador thanks S'pore in farewell video

Ukraine's ambassador to Singapore, Kateryna Zelenko, has expressed her gratitude to Singapore for standing by Ukraine during some of its most difficult years, as she prepares to leave her post.

In a farewell video shared on Facebook by the Embassy of Ukraine in Singapore, Zelenko reflected on her time in Singapore since arriving in 2020.

She described the years as a period of friendship and discovery, but also some of the most difficult in Ukraine's modern history.

"And throughout this journey, Singapore was there showing that even a small country can make a very big difference if it stands by its principles," she said.

"For this, we Ukrainians will always be grateful."

Thanked Singaporeans for their support

Zelenko expressed her gratitude to the Singapore government, her fellow ambassadors, the Ukrainian community and Singaporeans who had supported the embassy's initiatives.

She thanked Singaporeans for attending embassy events and offering assistance during difficult times.

"Thank you for believing that friendship matters — especially when times are difficult," she said.

Looking ahead, Zelenko expressed hope that she would one day be able to welcome Singaporeans to a peaceful Ukraine.

She spoke of a future in which Ukrainian cities would be rebuilt, families reunited and children could grow up without fear.

Zelenko also thanked her embassy team: "I may be leaving my post, but I am not leaving the friendship that we have built together."

She concluded her message by wishing Singaporeans peace and prosperity.

"Thank you, Singapore!"

Singapore's support for Ukraine

In February 2022, Ukraine's ambassador to the United Nations (UN), Sergiy Kyslytsya, hugged Singapore's UN ambassador Burhan Gafoor after the latter spoke out against Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Gafoor condemned the invasion, stressing Singapore's support for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries.