U.S.-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC)

06/12/2026

👏 U.S.-Ukraine Business Council Welcomes Alvarez & Marsal Ukraine LLC as a New Member

Alvarez & Marsal is a leading global professional services firm founded in New York in 1983 by Tony Alvarez II and Bryan Marsal, with over 12,000 employees operating across more than 100 offices in 40+ countries on six continents. Specialising in turnaround management, restructuring, and business performance improvement, A&M serves as a trusted advisor and interim leader to corporations, private equity investors, government agencies, and financial institutions globally.

Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction present precisely the kind of complex, high-stakes operational environment in which A&M has built its global reputation. As the country navigates wartime challenges and prepares for large-scale rebuilding across its banking, infrastructure, energy, and industrial sectors, A&M's capabilities in restructuring, financial advisory, and performance improvement position the firm to make a meaningful contribution — both to private-sector clients and to government entities engaged in the recovery process. Notably, A&M currently serves as a Fund Advisor to the U.S.-UkraineReconstruction Investment Fund (URIF).

💬 "Ukraine is at a critical inflection point where practical, action-oriented advisory expertise is in high demand alongside bothUkrainian Government and private sector”, said Sergiy Tsarelung, General Director, Alvarez & Marsal Ukraine LLC. “A&M has spent over 40 years helping organisations navigate exactly these kinds of complex transformations — from financial restructuring to operational turnarounds. We are committed to bringing that expertise to bear in Ukraine and to working alongside our clients here to build lasting value during this pivotal period of recovery and growth."

💬 “We are very pleased to welcome Alvarez & Marsal to the USUBC community. A&M is the kind of experienced, results-driven partner that Ukraine needs as it works through complex recovery challenges and rebuilds its economy,” said Irina Paliashvili, President & CEO of USUBC. “Their global track record and their decision to establish a presence in Ukraine send a strong signal of confidence in the country's future — and reinforce USUBC's core conviction that American business has a vital role to play in Ukraine's long-term success."

06/05/2026

🎫 On 30 May, USUBC joined United Help Ukraine's "Her Voice" event — an immersive evening of Ukrainian art, fashion, music, and storytelling that brought together community members in a powerful celebration of creativity and resilience. The event raised $61,400 in support of the SMUHA Family Resilience Project, which provides psychological support, therapeutic activities, and safe spaces for children and families affected by the war. The evening also marked the launch of the 2026 edition of Marigold Magazine, celebrating women who raise their voices for Ukraine — with proceeds from magazine sales continuing to benefit SMUHA.

06/05/2026

🕊️ On 28 May, the Kidsave community gathered for an unforgettable evening dedicated to transforming the lives of children in foster care and celebrating the power of saying “Yes.”

To Kidsave, “Yes” is a catalyst for change. It represents hope, opportunity, and a lifetime of difference. Today, every mentor, host family, adoptive parent, advocate, and supporter continues that mission by saying “Yes” to a child in need.

Two incredible community leaders, Darrell Booker and Sixto Cancel, were honored. Darrell Booker, leader of the Nonprofit Tech Acceleration of Black and African American Communities at Microsoft received the Inspirational Voices Award. And Sixto Cancel, the CEO and Founder of Think Of Us received the Champion for Change award.

The evening highlighted Kidsave’s urgent, ongoing work in Ukraine. As families continue to endure the hardships of war, the Kidsave Miracles Center, which celebrates its two-year anniversary this June, stands as a beacon of hope. There are currently 30 children arriving at the Miracles Center from the front lines of Kherson, where they face trauma, abduction, and human trafficking. Here, Kidsave provides a vital sanctuary of safety, healing, and joy, giving these children a chance to just be kids.

The event was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community is dedicated to making a difference.

05/21/2026

🇺🇸🇺🇦 On 18 May, USUBC and K&L Gates LLP co-organized the Business Forum: U.S. Private Sector Engagement in Ukraine’s Reconstruction in Washington, D.C., with support from Trident Group America, Inc. The event focused on mobilizing U.S. private sector interest and participation in Ukraine’s reconstruction ahead of the 2026 Ukraine Recovery Conference.

In his Keynote Remarks, Ambassador John Herbst, Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and Senior Director of the Eurasia Center at the Atlantic Council, urged investors to engage now rather than wait for the war's end, arguing that early positioning offers the strongest long-term returns.

Panel One, moderated by Guillermo Christensen, Partner at K&L Gates, examined Ukraine's defense tech sector as a live innovation environment where drone, robotics, and AI development is accelerating rapidly — panelists pushed back on perceptions of high risk, warning that slow U.S. engagement cedes ground to already-active European partners. Panel Two, moderated by Maria Kostytska, Partner at K&L Gates, addressed energy and critical minerals, covering the war-driven shift toward decentralized and resilient energy systems, the renewed role of nuclear power, and the mandate of the U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund (URIF) across energy, minerals, infrastructure, telecom, and emerging technologies. Panel Three, moderated by Irina Paliashvili, President & CEO of the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC), framed reconstruction as large-scale economic modernization tied to EU accession.

A recurring theme across all sessions was the gap between high-level reconstruction needs and bankable, investment-ready projects — with tools like URIF and DFC financing seen as critical bridges. Significant attention was devoted to the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC 2026) in Gdańsk as a key opportunity for the U.S. private sector to engage. At an estimated $600 billion in reconstruction needs, Ukraine represents one of the largest modernization opportunities globally.

📌 Read more https://usubc.org/usubc-and-kl-gates-co-hosted-business-forum-u-s-private-sector-engagement-in-ukraines-reconstruction-on-the-road-to-the-ukraine-recovery-conference-urc-2026-i/

Photo credit: David Hunsinger

05/14/2026

🇺🇸🇺🇦 On 7 May, USUBC, in partnership with Ukraine House and the Kyiv Mohyla Foundation of America, co-hosted an Evening with the Ukrainian Defenders Leadership Center at Ukraine House in Washington, D.C. The event brought together supporters, partners, and members of the Ukrainian and American communities to highlight ongoing efforts to support Ukrainian veterans through education, leadership development, and civic engagement as they transition from military service to civilian life.

Established within the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, the Ukrainian Defenders Leadership Center presented updates on its growing impact and future ambitions. Speakers included Yana Chapailo and Maria Savrun from the Ukrainian Defenders Leadership Center, as well as Dmytro Ternovyi, veteran and former Hospitallers combat medic and Marine, who shared his personal story of recovery and reintegration after being severely injured near Avdiivka. Over the past two years, the Center has graduated more than 120 veterans through four executive education programs, delivering over 860 hours of specialized training with support from corporate partners and international grants.

Keynote remarks were delivered by Ambassador William B. Taylor, who emphasized the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the importance of long-term support for veterans returning home. Marta Farion of the Kyiv-Mohyla Foundation of America also addressed guests, highlighting the role of philanthropy in advancing the Academy’s mission and recognizing supporters of the initiative. The evening was moderated by Mariia Ulianovska, Voice of America, and concluded with expressions of gratitude to all partners and attendees for supporting Ukraine’s veteran community and future leaders.

📸 Photo credit: Ukraine House

05/13/2026

📣 On 8 May, USUBC organized the panel “AI for Recovery and Demining in Ukraine” during the third AI+ Expo in Washington, D.C., hosted by the Special Competitive Studies Project as part of the full Ukraine Day program “Innovation Under Fire: Lessons Learned from Ukraine.” The Ukraine-focused programming brought together government officials, technology leaders, innovators, and private sector representatives to showcase how Ukraine’s wartime innovations are driving advancements in AI, drones, cybersecurity, digital governance, infrastructure, and resilience technologies with far-reaching global impact.

The event also featured keynote remarks by Ambassador Stefanishyna Olga, who emphasized Ukraine’s growing role as a trusted innovation and technology partner, noting: “If you are looking for a trustworthy partner, choose Ukrainian one — it is very well tested.”

Reflecting these broader themes of innovation, resilience, and recovery, the USUBC panel, moderated by Nadiia Khomaziuk, USUBC Vice President, explored how AI-driven technologies are helping Ukraine address critical reconstruction challenges — from transparency and compliance to workforce development, infrastructure recovery, risk management, and demining.

Panelists shared practical examples of how Ukrainian organizations are deploying innovative technologies and AI-enabled solutions to support Ukraine’s resilience and long-term recovery:

🔹 Dmytro Ovcharenko, Alcor, discussed the importance of human capital and global talent integration in Ukraine’s recovery, emphasizing that rebuilding the country will require not only infrastructure and investment, but also skilled professionals capable of driving innovation and scaling advanced technologies.

🔹 Yulia O'Connell, Dignitas Ukraine, highlighted technology training programs for defenders, veterans, amputees, and youth, demonstrating how drone operations, robotics, and AI-related education are helping build an inclusive, future-ready workforce.

🔹 Nina Sharaievska, Softengi, presented an autonomous AI agent designed to support compliance and recovery audits through analysis of documents, photos, videos, and regulatory requirements, helping strengthen transparency and accountability across reconstruction projects.

🔹 Oleksandr Vainer, UADAMAGE 🇺🇦, demonstrated how AI-powered damage assessment, drone reconnaissance, and risk-mapping technologies can support faster recovery planning, infrastructure assessment, and more efficient landmine contamination analysis.

The discussion underscored how Ukraine is becoming a global testing ground for AI-enabled resilience technologies, autonomous systems, robotics, and digital solutions that can help improve transparency, efficiency, and coordination across recovery and reconstruction efforts.

👏 USUBC thanks all speakers, members, and participants who joined this important conversation on the role of innovation and AI in building a more resilient, modern, and secure Ukraine.

📸 Photo credit: Some photos featured in this post were sourced from the Embassy of Ukraine in the USA / Посольство України в США social media pages.

05/01/2026

📣 The U.S.-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC) will organize the panel “AI for Recovery and Demining in Ukraine” during the third AI+ Expo in Washington, D.C. As part of the Ukraine Program, this final panel will take place on Friday, May 8 at 3:00 PM.

The AI+Expo event is organized by the Special Competitive Studies Project - SCSP and will be held from 7-9 May at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

The AI+Expo convenes leaders across AI, technology, and U.S. and allied competitiveness to foster collaboration and build strategic relationships. Please note that all participants, including speakers, are required to register through the general Expo registration link, with no separate registration needed for the panel.

📌 Read more https://expo.scsp.ai/

05/01/2026

🇺🇸🇺🇦 The U.S.-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC), in partnership with Ukraine House and the Kyiv Mohyla Foundation of America, a valued USUBC member, will host an Evening with the Ukrainian Defenders Leadership Center at Ukraine House in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, 7 May at 6 PM. The event will highlight the Center’s work in supporting Ukrainian veterans through education, community engagement, and leadership development, equipping them to contribute to Ukraine’s long-term recovery and reconstruction.

Established within the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, the Center brings together veterans, academia, and cross-sector partners to foster leadership and civic engagement. This May, its team will visit Washington to present its work and engage with partners and stakeholders.

Keynote remarks will be delivered by the Honorable William B. Taylor, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine. Speakers will also include Yana Chapailo, Director of the Ukrainian Defenders Leadership Center, Dmytro Ternovyi, veteran and former Hospitallers combat medic and Marine, and Mariia Savrun, Partnerships and Development Director of the Center.

📌 Register https://forms.gle/fyfV9cyf1vopuYdQ9

04/30/2026

📣 On 28 April, USUBC in partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce, hosted a webinar focused on emerging investment opportunities linked to Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts and the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC 2026) in Gdańsk. The discussion brought together senior representatives of the U.S. and Ukrainian governments, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Washington, D.C., and the private sector to explore the U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund (URIF), available support mechanisms, and practical pathways for U.S. companies seeking to engage in Ukraine’s recovery.

Welcoming remarks were delivered by Cameron Werker, Deputy Assistant Secretary (Acting) for Europe and Eurasia, International Trade Administration (ITA), U.S. Department of Commerce. The discussion featured Jonathan Taylor, Associate General Counsel, U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC); Elizabeth Shortino, Managing Director, Public Sector Services, Alvarez & Marsal, LLC; Yegor Perelygin, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine; Leon Skarshinski, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Department of Commerce’s Foreign Commercial Service; Magda Zgorzałek, Diplomat, Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Washington, D.C.

Moderated by Irina Paliashvili, President & CEO of USUBC, the conversation explored key priorities for Ukraine’s recovery, the structure and strategic role of URIF, and the importance of coordinated international engagement ahead of the URC 2026 in Gdańsk. Panelists highlighted the critical role of private sector involvement, underscored available financial and institutional support tools, and encouraged U.S. companies to actively explore opportunities to contribute to Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction and economic growth. The discussion was followed by Q&A session moderated by Nadiia Khomaziuk, Vice President of USUBC.

📌 Watch

On 28 April, USUBC in partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce, hosted a webinar focused on emerging investment opportunities linked to Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts and the upcoming Ukraine Recovery […]

04/29/2026

👏U.S.-Ukraine Business Council Welcomes RENK America LLC as a New Member

RENK America LLC is a leading global supplier of mission-critical mobility solutions for military combat vehicles and naval platforms, delivering battle-tested engines, transmissions, and suspension systems that power U.S. and allied forces worldwide. Headquartered in Muskegon, Michigan, and part of the publicly traded RENK Group AG in Germany, the company plays a vital role in defense ecosystems across NATO – with its technologies supporting approximately 75% of tracked military vehicles and nearly all NATO naval vessels. From the Bradley Fighting Vehicle to the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, RENK systems are recognized for their reliability, precision, and performance in the most demanding operational environments.

With decades of engineering expertise and a strong commitment to supporting service members, RENK America develops and manufactures critical drivetrain and propulsion solutions that directly contribute to operational effectiveness and soldier safety. The company’s portfolio spans advanced transmissions, high-performance engines such as the AVDS-1790 series, hybrid drivetrain technologies, and suspension systems designed to withstand extreme conditions. Its close collaboration with the U.S. Army and international partners ensures continuous innovation aligned with real-world mission requirements.

💬 “Joining USUBC reflects our commitment to strengthening partnerships that enhance collective security and defense capabilities,” said Robert Palmer, Vice President of Washington Operations at RENK America LLC. “We see meaningful opportunities to contribute our expertise in mobility solutions to support Ukraine’s defense needs and long-term modernization efforts, while also deepening collaboration with U.S. and international stakeholders engaged in the region.”

💬 “RENK America brings unparalleled experience in delivering mission-critical systems that are already deeply integrated across NATO forces,” said Irina Paliashvili, President & CEO of USUBC. “Their membership strengthens our community of leading defense and industrial partners and underscores the growing importance of advanced mobility and propulsion technologies in supporting Ukraine’s security, resilience, and future recovery.”