Café Kyiv in Berlin is one of the largest events in Europe dedicated to Ukraine. The event brings together people who support freedom, democracy, and the country’s rebuilding, creating a unique space for political discussions, cultural programs, and active civic engagement.

The event brought together over 5,000 guests and featured panel discussions, film screenings, exhibitions, concerts, and the Skrynya Pop-Up Market. Many of the conversations focused on Ukraine’s experience in military and drone security.

Our delegation included Olena Halushka, Iryna Krasnoshtan, Lesya Orobec, and Vlada Dumenko. We were truly honored to be part of this large-scale political and cultural event.

Panel discussion “The New Frontline: Civil Society’s Role in Modern Warfare and Ukraine’s Drone Revolution“

We had the honor of participating in the panel discussions at Café Kyiv, where our experts Iryna Krasnoshtan and Lesya Orobec shared their insights.

The discussion allowed European experts, activists, and policymakers to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics of modern warfare. Special attention was given to Ukraine’s experience, which can strengthen Europe’s resilience, highlight the role of civil society in driving innovation and defense, and demonstrate how European partners need to rethink their approaches to security and readiness in a rapidly changing world.

Among the honored speakers were:

• Iryna Krasnostan, Program Director ICUV, former analyst at the NATO Representation to Ukraine
• Lesia Orobets, leader of the Sky Shield Initiative, former member of Ukrainian Parliament
• Taras Tymochko, Project Lead, Come Back Alive
• Nils Thal,  German professional firefighter from Nuremberg who volunteered to work with the State Emergency Service in Kharkiv, Ukraine
• Moderator: Inna Nelles, Co-founder, German-Ukrainian Bureau 

A lively and engaging discussion took place, during which we emphasized that modern warfare represents a new era of drone-based conflict. Ukraine possesses unique experience that can be valuable for all European countries. However, it is crucial to learn not from a distance, but directly on Ukrainian soil, where one can witness firsthand the real conditions and the rapid pace of change on the battlefield.

Europe does not always grasp the reality of time and how quickly conditions change on the battlefield. There is still a misconception that Europe has more time, when in fact it does not. Another mistake is thinking that Europe can learn from Ukraine from a distance. Observing Ukraine alone does not provide the full experience—it is essential to be on the ground, witnessing events firsthand and making rapid decisions.

Iryna Krasnostan, Program Director ICUV, former analyst at the NATO Representation to Ukraine

Lesia Orobets emphasized that the Ukrainian approach to weapons production and deployment combines speed and efficiency in real battlefield conditions, providing valuable lessons for other countries on preparation and response in modern warfare.

There are two approaches: the American and the Ukrainian. The American approach focuses on producing the best possible weapons with maximum specifications and high costs. The Ukrainian approach emphasizes speed and efficiency, often acting literally “yesterday.” Our solutions are tested directly on the battlefield, providing real, practical experience in challenging conditions.

Lesia Orobets, leader of the Sky Shield Initiative, former member of Ukrainian Parliament

Panel discussion “Deterring Authoritarians & Holding Russia Accountable – the next steps on #MakeRussiaPay“

There was also a panel discussion on #MakeRussiaPay, a topic that continues to draw significant attention. The discussion explored ways to use frozen Russian assets to strengthen Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction efforts, as well as to hold Russia accountable.

Among the honored speakers were:

• H.E. Marika Linntam, Ambassador of Estonia to Germany
• Jamison Firestone, Co-Founder, Global Magnitsky Justice Campaign
• Dr. Olena Halushka, Co-Founder, International Center for Ukrainian Victory (ICUV)
• Yuliya Ziskina, Senior Legal Fellow, Razom for Ukraine 
• Patrick Heinemann, Partner, Bender Harrer Krevet 

Moderation:  Aaron Gasch Burnett, Senior Security Policy Fellow, ERIC

Justice is not for sale, and frozen Russian assets are part of it. Europe has this money to help Ukraine win, but it still hasn’t used it. We need a much stronger European position – the assets are part of our victory.

Dr. Olena Halushka, Co-Founder, International Center for Ukrainian Victory (ICUV)

In Berlin, on February 24, the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, our team also joined a solidarity event in support of Ukraine. Under the slogan “For Europe’s Future,” participants marched to the Brandenburg Gate, which was illuminated in the colors of the Ukrainian flag. Around 5,000 people took part in the solidarity action. The hashtag #MakeRussiaPay resonated throughout the event, and participants held creative signs calling for justice and accountability for the aggressor.

We sincerely thank everyone who joined the event that day and stood with us. Every voice, every sign, and every moment of silence is incredibly important for Ukraine.