SCRANTON, PA — In a poignant display of international solidarity, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant (SCAAP) on Sunday, highlighting the critical role the United States plays in supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts. The visit to this key munitions facility, renowned for its production of 155-millimeter howitzer rounds, highlights the strategic importance of Pennsylvania’s contribution to Ukraine’s ongoing resistance against Russian aggression.
Governor Josh Shapiro, alongside members of his administration, welcomed President Zelenskyy to the plant, a U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command facility, where he met with workers dedicated to crafting artillery vital to Ukraine’s military operations. Governor Shapiro articulated Pennsylvania’s historic commitment to freedom, stating, “Pennsylvania is the birthplace of American freedom – and our Commonwealth proudly stands with the people of Ukraine as they fight for their freedom against naked aggression.”
A significant outcome of President Zelenskyy’s visit was the signing of a comprehensive agreement between Pennsylvania and the Zaporizhzhia Regional State Administration. This accord aims to bolster post-war reconstruction efforts in Southeast Ukraine, while simultaneously offering Pennsylvania businesses opportunities to engage in these efforts through the Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED). The agreement includes collaboration in vital sectors such as energy, agriculture, digital technologies, and defense, thereby fostering mutual economic growth and innovation. DCED Secretary Rick Siger emphasized the mutual benefits, noting, “This agreement will help support the future economic revitalization of Ukraine, while boosting our economy and creating jobs for Pennsylvanians.”
In tandem with manufacturing support, defense collaboration remains a cornerstone of U.S.-Ukraine relations. Recently, over 150 soldiers from the Pennsylvania National Guard’s 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team were deployed to Germany as part of Task Force Independence. These soldiers are tasked with providing crucial training to Ukrainian forces, enhancing their capabilities in combined arms and maneuver tactics required for effective battalion operations. This initiative is part of a broader strategy announced by the U.S. Department of Defense to enhance the operational readiness of the Ukrainian Armed Forces through specialized training programs.
Major General Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general, hailed the contributions of the National Guard, stating, “Training is key to Ukraine’s continued success on the battlefield.” The deployment underscores the shared commitment to maintaining stability and security in Eastern Europe, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine.
President Zelenskyy’s visit and the agreements forged in Scranton signal a deepening alliance, reflecting shared values and a collective commitment to countering aggression and promoting democratic principles. As Pennsylvania solidifies its role in supporting Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction, the partnership between the two regions emerges as a testament to resilience and cooperation in the face of global challenges.
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