In a significant move, the Swedish government has mandated the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency to establish a rehabilitation centre for injured soldiers in Ukraine. This development comes as Sweden continues to support efforts to rehabilitate and care for Ukrainian veterans, with operations led by NATO since 2024.
The new centre is part of Operation Renovator, a joint project between NATO and Ukraine aimed at rehabilitating injured soldiers to enable them to return to active duty or lead a civilian life with a reasonable quality of life. The Swedish government has pledged greater support for this effort, with the mandate now in place to modernize and adapt an existing building, procure medical equipment, and train healthcare staff.
According to Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Sweden's continued support is crucial in its fight for freedom. "Ukraine isn’t just fighting for its own freedom, but for ours," he stated during a recent visit to one of the rehabilitation centres last autumn. By stepping up their support, Sweden aims to help Ukrainian soldiers overcome physical and mental trauma, allowing them to continue defending their country.
Minister for Health Care Acko Ankarberg Johansson added that Swedish expertise and commitment can contribute significantly to reforming Ukraine's health and medical care system. The centre will provide essential support to the rehabilitation of injured soldiers, a key aspect of this effort.
Defence spokesperson Gulan Avci emphasized the moral obligation to help Ukrainian soldiers recover from their sacrifices. "One of Ukraine’s most acute needs is the rehabilitation of injured soldiers. Therefore, Sweden is now stepping up its support by becoming an active partner in Operation Renovator. We will support Ukraine for as long as it takes," he said.
The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency will implement the mandate between July 2025 and July 2027, with support from various Swedish government agencies, including the Swedish Armed Forces, Defence Materiel Administration, Fortifications Agency, and National Board of Health and Welfare. Upon completion, operational responsibility for the medical facility will be transferred to Ukraine through the NATO Ukraine Comprehensive Assistance Package Trust Fund.
The agency's final report on the mandate is expected by October 31, 2027, providing an account of its activities, project costs, and experiences from medical care in wartime conditions relevant to Sweden's total defence.
Sweden’s commitment to supporting Ukrainian soldiers in rehabilitation highlights the significance of this effort in advancing regional security.