Welsh fire engine being donated to Ukrainian airport following missile attack

A Welsh fire engine is being donated to a Ukrainian airport after its original fire engine was destroyed in a missile attack.

The fire engine is being given to Kharkiv Airport, which was attacked by Russian missiles last year.

During the attack, the fire engine at the eastern Ukrainian airport was damaged beyond repair.

In February this year, the airport asked for international help to replace the damaged vehicle.

St Athan airfield, in the Vale of Glamorgan, has a surplus of fire engines and after discussions, it was found one of those surplus vehicles met the needs of Kharkiv Airport.

Welsh Government economy minister Vaughan Gething, who authorised the donation, said he was “proud that Wales is able to play its part and stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”

Mr Gething continued: “Our friends at Kharkiv Airport have asked for help and I am pleased that we are able to assist with this donation.

“This replacement fire truck will enable the airport to continue to serve the community and assist in the reconstruction and recovery of the city of Kharkiv.”

The fire truck will be transported to Kharkiv Airport through support from the UK Ministry of Defence.