The London Ambulance Service (LAS) has donated 59 decommissioned ambulances to Ukraine, helping to provide vital medical care to both frontline personnel and civilians as the war continues to devastate the region.
The retired vehicles, no longer in service as part of LAS’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme, have been handed over to the charity British-Ukrainian Aid. The most recent delivery of nine ambulances has now reached the frontline, where they are actively being used to save lives.
“The ambulances have reached the end of their service in the capital, but they can still help to save lives in Ukraine,” said Chris Rutherford, Fleet Modernisation Manager at LAS.
“We are very proud we can do this and our thoughts remain with our counterparts working on ambulances caring for those injured in the conflict.”
Humanitarian Support Since the Start of the War
The donation forms part of an ongoing effort that began in 2022, when LAS first sent 10 retired ambulances filled with medical supplies to Poland. From there, they were taken across the border into Ukraine to support humanitarian work.
A team of 26 LAS volunteers drove 1,100 miles over three days, delivering essential equipment such as ventilators, tourniquets, wound dressings, syringe pumps, blizzard blankets, and PPE—much of it donated by NHS organisations across London.
Since then, additional ambulances have been shipped with the help of Ukrainian drivers, ensuring delivery to areas most in need.
“Every Piece of Help Matters”
Nadia Pylypchuk of British-Ukrainian Aid expressed deep gratitude for the support:
“In Ukraine, any equipment or any help really matters – whether it is big or small.
We cannot thank the London Ambulance Service enough for their kind donations which are saving lives. The ambulances are used on the frontline and to treat civilians.”
Earlier this week, the London Fire Brigade also contributed to the humanitarian effort, donating vital life-saving equipment including over 140 folding roof ladders, goggles, overalls, and breathing apparatus supplies.
The UK’s emergency services continue to play a critical role in supporting Ukraine through practical aid, even as conflict rages on.
