Ukraine aid: Chemnitz fire brigade hands over vehicle for colleagues from Melitopol in Ukraine
In the presence of Lord Mayor Sven Schulze, the Chemnitz professional fire brigade handed over a fire engine to the fire brigade of the occupied Ukrainian city of Melitopol this afternoon. Chemnitz is thus honouring part of its promised support for the city. The vehicle was collected by Mykahilo Veremenko, who is currently travelling between his home country and Europe several times a week to transport aid.
The vehicle handed over was built in 2004 and had been in service at Fire Station 3 of the Chemnitz professional fire brigade since 2005. It is a fully equipped "HLF 20" rescue fire fighting vehicle. It is able to carry crew, equipment and 2,000 litres of water as well as 200 litres of foaming agent. It can therefore be used to fight fires to the full extent and for simple technical assistance, as a hydraulic rescue kit consisting of a spreader and scissors is also on board.
The firefighters from the Ukraine also received a short technical briefing on the vehicle today before setting off on their return journey tomorrow.
Veremenko has been in Germany since the spring; as the father of three children, he was allowed to leave Ukraine after the start of the war. He is currently commuting home to bring medicines and other relief supplies to the war zone.
Lord Mayor Sven Schulze recently assured Ivan Federov, mayor of the occupied Ukrainian city, of the city's support at a meeting in Chemnitz on 1 October. Further offers of help could be realised quickly in the event of liberation.
Note for editorial offices: The photo is available for use free of charge. Photographer: Philipp Köhler / City of Chemnitz