Greenwich Marks 1-Year Anniversary Of Ukraine Sister City Relationship

GREENWICH, CT — The town of Greenwich on Wednesday marked the one-year anniversary of its sister city relationship with Izyum, a city in Northeastern Ukraine.

Elected officials and residents gathered outside Greenwich Town Hall for a brief ceremony.

Olga Litvinenko, a Greenwich resident and former Miss Connecticut USA 2017 who helped spearhead the sister city relationship, reflected on the past year and looked to the future.

"This partnership symbolizes more than just a formal connection, it represents a bridge between cultures, united by shared values in the community and resilience," said Litvinenko, who is also one of the founders of USA For Ukraine, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing direct aid to those affected by the war and directing people to the appropriate channels of charity.

"Over the two years, as Izyum has faced unimaginable challenges, our bond has strengthened. We in Greenwich have been privileged to offer support and solidarity for our friends in Ukraine during these trying times. This relationship has enriched our community, allowing us to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the strength and courage of the Ukrainian people," Litvinenko added.

Through fundraising efforts in the Greenwich area over the past year, Litvinenko said USA For Ukraine has delivered much-needed medical supplies to the hospital in Izyum, food and pre-packed meals for those in need, and water filtration units.

She thanked Greenwich for its support, and said the sister city relationship represents a bridge between cultures united by shared values in the community and resilience.

"As we look to the future, we eagerly anticipate the end of the war. We long for the day when peace will allow us to further engage in our cultural exchange of heritages," Litvinenko said. "We envision a time when we can warmly welcome our friends from Izyum to Greenwich to share in the beauty of our town and the warmth of our community."

Litvinenko read a statement from Izyum Mayor Valerii Marchenko.

"We appreciate the help of the American people and sincerely thank you for your support which strengthens our belief that Ukraine will definitely win," the statement read in part. "We sincerely wish peace, goodness and prosperity to the town of Greenwich, and the United States of America. We wish you social harmony, respect and trust, and each family to have comfort, inspiration, love and success in creating the future of their hometown."

Selectperson Janet Stone McGuigan spoke briefly, too.

"I know that everyone in Greenwich, our hearts and our thoughts are with Ukraine now and always," she said.

On April 26 at 8 p.m., The National Ensemble of Soloists Kiv Camerata will perform a concert with special guest Victoria Minningham at Greenwich Country Day School.

The concert aims to raise awareness for the cause in Ukraine, emphasize common values that unite the US and Ukraine through a cultural exchange, and fundraise for humanitarian and animal needs.

Tickets can be purchased here.

"I really hope we can continue to come together, that we recognize the importance of supporting and standing with our international friends," Litvinenko said. "We look forward to the continuation of this really prosperous and wonderful relationship."

This is the fourth sister city partnership for Greenwich. The town established sister cities in China (Hangzhou) and Italy (Rose and Morra De Sanctis) over the past decade.