On June 12, Governor of Colorado Jared Polis led a delegation to the Volyn region of Ukraine, marking an important step in the development of regional cooperation between Ukraine and the United States.

The visit follows discussions held in Denver last November regarding opportunities to expand cooperation between Ukraine and the State of Colorado. As a result of these efforts, a Sister-State Agreement between Volyn Region and the State of Colorado was signed in February 2026.

During meetings in Volyn, the parties discussed a broad range of areas for future cooperation, including:

• educational and youth exchange programs, including a planned visit of Volyn students to Colorado this fall and the establishment of a joint educational and innovation hub;
• workforce development, dual education initiatives, and retraining programs for veterans and internally displaced persons;
• cooperation in healthcare, medical rehabilitation, and the development of prosthetics programs for Ukrainian service members;
• support for critical infrastructure, including healthcare facilities and related equipment needs;
• economic cooperation, engagement with American businesses, and participation in Ukraine’s future reconstruction projects;
• cultural diplomacy and artistic exchanges between the two regions.

During the visit, Governor Polis toured the Lutsk Community Rehabilitation Center for Combat Veterans, vocational education institutions, the Korsaks’ Museum of Contemporary Ukrainian Art, met with representatives of the business community, and visited civilian infrastructure sites affected by Russian attacks.

The visit underscored the growing partnership between Volyn Region and the State of Colorado and highlighted opportunities for expanding cooperation in education, healthcare, economic development, culture, and Ukraine’s recovery efforts.