On Saturday, October 11, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy bestowed a prestigious honor upon Reem Al Hashimy, the United Arab Emirates’ Minister of State for International Cooperation, awarding her the Order of Princess Olga, First Class. This accolade recognizes her significant contributions to supporting Ukraine and its citizens during the protracted conflict with Russia, which is nearing its fourth year. The award ceremony underscored the deepening ties between Ukraine and the UAE, highlighting the latter’s role as a key partner in humanitarian and diplomatic efforts.
The Order of Princess Olga, one of Ukraine’s highest honors for women, is awarded for outstanding contributions in various fields, including diplomacy, culture, and humanitarian work. In presenting the award, President Zelenskyy praised Al Hashimy for her pivotal role in facilitating the release of Ukrainians held in Russian captivity and for the UAE’s substantial humanitarian aid to Ukrainian families and children impacted by the war. In a statement shared via Telegram, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the UAE’s consistent support, emphasizing the country’s mediation efforts in prisoner exchanges and its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance.
“We are grateful to every country and to everyone who truly supports our people,” Zelenskyy wrote. “The United Arab Emirates has repeatedly acted as a mediator in securing the return of Ukrainians from Russian captivity. We also value their significant humanitarian initiatives, support to Ukrainian children and families, and bilateral cooperation.” He further noted that Ukraine is eager to strengthen and expand its partnership with the UAE, signaling optimism for continued collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.
The award ceremony coincided with a visit to Ukraine by a UAE delegation led by Al Hashimy. The visit provided an opportunity to reaffirm the UAE’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, both through diplomatic channels and humanitarian initiatives. The UAE has emerged as a vital partner in navigating the complexities of the Ukraine-Russia war, which has caused widespread devastation since its onset in February 2022. As the conflict approaches its fourth anniversary, the UAE’s role as a mediator and provider of aid has become increasingly significant.
The UAE’s mediation efforts have been particularly impactful in facilitating prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia. These exchanges are a critical aspect of the war’s humanitarian dimension, as both sides hold numerous prisoners of war and civilians. The UAE’s neutral stance and diplomatic expertise have enabled it to act as an intermediary, helping to secure the release of Ukrainians detained by Russian forces. These efforts have brought relief to families and communities, offering hope amid the war’s grim realities.
In addition to its diplomatic contributions, the UAE has provided substantial humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. This includes aid packages tailored to the needs of vulnerable populations, such as displaced families and children affected by the conflict. The UAE’s initiatives have included food, medical supplies, and other essential resources, addressing the immediate needs of those impacted by the war. These efforts have been particularly crucial in supporting Ukrainian children, many of whom have faced displacement, loss, and trauma as a result of the ongoing violence.
The UAE’s involvement in Ukraine reflects its broader commitment to global humanitarian causes. Under Al Hashimy’s leadership, the UAE has positioned itself as a key player in international cooperation, leveraging its resources and diplomatic influence to address crises worldwide. In Ukraine, this commitment has translated into tangible support, from facilitating prisoner releases to delivering aid to conflict-affected areas. The Order of Princess Olga awarded to Al Hashimy is a testament to her personal leadership in these efforts and the UAE’s broader contributions to Ukraine’s resilience.
Zelenskyy’s recognition of Al Hashimy also underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing the challenges of the Ukraine-Russia war. As the conflict continues, Ukraine has relied on a network of global allies to provide military, financial, and humanitarian support. The UAE’s role as a mediator and aid provider complements the efforts of other nations and organizations, creating a multifaceted support system for Ukraine. This collaboration is vital as Ukraine navigates the war’s ongoing toll, including widespread destruction, displacement, and loss of life.
The visit by the UAE delegation, led by Al Hashimy, provided an opportunity to discuss further avenues for cooperation. While specific details of the discussions were not disclosed, the visit likely included talks on strengthening bilateral ties, expanding humanitarian initiatives, and exploring additional opportunities for mediation. The UAE’s willingness to engage directly with Ukrainian leadership demonstrates its commitment to playing an active role in supporting Ukraine’s people and government.
For Ukraine, the UAE’s support is a lifeline in a conflict that has stretched its resources and tested its resilience. The war has displaced millions, damaged critical infrastructure, and disrupted daily life across the country. International assistance, such as that provided by the UAE, helps alleviate some of these burdens, offering both practical support and a message of solidarity. Zelenskyy’s public acknowledgment of the UAE’s contributions serves to reinforce the importance of these partnerships and to encourage continued global engagement.
The Order of Princess Olga, First Class, awarded to Al Hashimy is not only a personal honor but also a symbol of the growing relationship between Ukraine and the UAE. It reflects the UAE’s emergence as a key player in the international response to the Ukraine-Russia war, balancing diplomacy with humanitarian action. For Al Hashimy, the award recognizes her leadership in navigating complex diplomatic challenges and delivering aid to those in need.
As the war approaches its fourth year, the need for sustained international support remains critical. The UAE’s contributions, as highlighted by Zelenskyy, demonstrate the impact of collective action in addressing the humanitarian and diplomatic challenges of the conflict. By honoring Al Hashimy, Ukraine has not only acknowledged her individual efforts but also signaled its appreciation for the UAE’s broader role in standing with the Ukrainian people during one of the most challenging periods in their history.
Looking ahead, Zelenskyy’s call for continued cooperation suggests that Ukraine sees the UAE as a long-term partner in its efforts to navigate the war and its aftermath. Whether through further mediation, humanitarian aid, or strengthened bilateral ties, the relationship between Ukraine and the UAE is poised to grow. The award ceremony and the accompanying delegation visit mark a significant moment in this partnership, reinforcing the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis.
In conclusion, the recognition of Reem Al Hashimy with the Order of Princess Olga, First Class, highlights the UAE’s vital role in supporting Ukraine during its ongoing conflict with Russia. Through mediation, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic engagement, the UAE has made a meaningful impact on the lives of Ukrainians affected by the war. President Zelenskyy’s gratitude and the prospect of continued collaboration underscore the importance of global partnerships in addressing the challenges of the Ukraine-Russia war, offering hope for a more stable and secure future.
