MS’s UKRAINE APPEAL BUYS SPECIALIST SEARCH DRONES

Mick Antoniw MS, Member of Senedd for Pontypridd has confirmed that his fundraising appeal has funded the purchase of four high-spec drones for use by Ukrainian medics to search for the injured and fatalities.

The purchase of the Parrot ANAFI drones, comes at the request of the Ukrainian embassy.  They will allow medics and search and rescue teams to survey large areas using state-of-the-art 4K video and thermal imaging technology.

The fundraising appeal was launched by Mick Antoniw, a second generation Ukrainian and member of the Welsh Government immediately following the illegal invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces.  The fundraising appeal raised more than £43,000.

Mick Antoniw MS said:

“Because of the generosity of people from across Wales the fundraising appeal raised more than eight times its target of £5000.  It means that the fund is able to provide futher urgent help to medics in addition to the supply of medical equipment to help deal with battlefield trauma.

“The request for the specialist drones has come directly from the Ukrainian Embassy in London.  The drones will allow medics to identify the injured and fatalities in the rubble and chaos resulting from Russian attacks on civilian buildings.”

The Ukrainian embassy in London is coordinating with the supplier to ensure the drones, which have already been dispatched, arrive in Ukraine as soon as possible.

Mick Antoniw added:

“The drones are specifically designed for use in conflict zones and use the latest thermal and video imaging technology.  They will undoubtedly help to save many, many lives.

“I would like to thank businesses, colleagues in the Trades Unions and the thousands of individuals who contributed to the appeal.  Their generosity has been truly humbling and I know is deeply appreciated by the Ukrainian people.”