All,
Today marked the opening day of the conference, and it was nothing short of historic. Prime Ministers from across Europe delivered passionate speeches affirming their unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on the status of the war. How wife, Olena, talked about the damage done to the buildings, and more so, the people who have endured 3 years of war in their homes and their land.
The G7 Ukraine Reconstruction Business Advisory Council (BAC)
A historic first day
We met with top leaders of Ukraine defense
Representing the United States, General Keith Kellogg, US Envoy to Ukraine, echoed that support, invoking the spirit of post-WWII recovery: “We’ve been here before—in 1945, when the Marshall Plan rebuilt Europe. And look at Europe today after all the destruction from that war.” His message was clear: America stands ready to help Ukraine rebuild.
Retired U.S. General Keith Kellogg gave a strong and important speech
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent added that America is not only committed to Ukraine’s recovery but also to ensuring that only those countries that supported Ukraine during its darkest hours will have the opportunity to contribute to its reconstruction.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pledged strong support to rebuild Ukraine
That principle is at the heart of the Business Advisory Council, which LP has proudly helped shape from its inception. Alongside with businesses from 18 countries (Northrop Grumman and Palantir are the 2 other US reps) we’re working to drive American investment into Ukraine—not just after the war, but right now. As many of you know, LP has been deeply involved since the early days, helping companies deliver essential goods—military, energy, and commercial—when and where they’re needed most. We’ve become, in many ways, the tip of the shovel.
With Petro, who helped with all the folks we met. Represents well and a good guy! And his lovely wife Oxana keeps him on target 🙂
Derek is the unsung hero of LP’s work in the BAC
Derek and I sharing a light moment at the BAC meeting
Before my talk put him to sleep. Can’t really blame him hahaha
I also had the chance to share with attendees some of the incredible contributions LP and our team have made in support of Ukraine:
• Our courageous employees working inside Ukraine
• The hockey camps providing relief and joy to Ukrainian children
• The soccer stadium and Seasters program in Odesa
• The Sister City relationship between the Port of Chornomorsk and the Port of Erie—two ports, two cities, united by their pivotal roles in each of their country’s fight for freedom and independence.
This is more than a conference. It’s a moment in history. And I’m proud—we all should be proud—of the role LP continues to play.
Onward,
-JB
