The Serhiy Prytula Foundation, Ukraine's second-largest charity, has evolved from a civilian aid organization into a critical military supplier, according to Bohdan Danyliv, who heads the foundation's military department. In an exclusive interview with Express Kyiv correspondent John Marone, Danyliv revealed the foundation's journey and its impact on the war against Russia.
From Kindergartens to Combat Drones
Danyliv explained that the foundation initially focused on civilian projects, such as building kindergartens and providing Covid-19 relief. Founder Serhiy Prytula, a former showman like President Volodymyr Zelensky, began volunteering after Russia's 2014 invasion. He raised money and personally delivered supplies to the front lines.
In 2020, Prytula formally established the foundation, which now supports demining, healthcare, optical equipment, tactical medicine, and an extensive drone program. Danyliv noted, 'We were the first in Ukraine to systematically purchase and supply FPV drones, and the first to provide deep strike drones.'
Filling Critical Gaps in Military Supply
When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine's Ministry of Defence struggled to procure basic items like artillery shells. The foundation stepped in, connecting manufacturers directly to battalions. Danyliv said, 'We communicate with the army to find out what they need and get feedback. It works both ways.'
After more than four years of war, the foundation boasts extensive experience, market knowledge, and contacts at all military levels. 'When the war started, no single entity could meet all the army's needs. We could make procurements fast, and people trusted us,' Danyliv added.
Challenges and Adaptability
The foundation has faced numerous challenges, including Russian propaganda accusing it of squandering funds, cyberattacks, and drone strikes on its vehicles. Danyliv remains unfazed: 'I tell my colleagues: You cannot even imagine how many Russians you have killed with the work that you do.'
The foundation has also been targeted indirectly through attacks on Ukrainian businesses that fund it. To protect itself, the foundation employs its own security service, vets employees, and controls supply chains without middlemen.
Satellite Intelligence and Future Plans
In 2022, the foundation procured a surveillance satellite from Finland, which has taken 5,900 images since September 2022, causing billions of dollars in Russian losses. This includes a September 2023 attack on a Russian submarine and surface ship near Sevastopol.
The foundation is currently halfway to its fundraising goal of one billion hryvnias and plans to expand its satellite capabilities. Danyliv stated, 'We may not always be able to depend on our partners for satellite intelligence.'
Intelligence and drones remain crucial for Ukraine's fight. Danyliv concluded, 'Until Russia falls and Putin is destroyed.'
