Russian President Vladimir Putin met with employees and wards of the state fund 'Defenders of the Fatherland' at the Unified Center for Supporting Participants of the Special Military Operation (SVO) and their families on March 9, 2025. This key meeting, highlighted as significant by Kremlin representatives, focused on the government's commitment to assist military personnel and their families, particularly those who have been affected by the Special Military Operation.
During the meeting, Putin emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive support to military participants and their families. He remarked, "It is imperative to help those who need assistance, particularly the guys who have sustained serious injuries, and to support the families... From the very first days, we must provide various forms of assistance, potentially including psychological support to the relatives of the affected, especially the deceased."
The President underscored the direct engagement of the fund's employees with those impacted, stating, "Your personal connection to people's fates is extremely important for all, primarily for our guys who are fighting, and their family members." He expressed deep appreciation for the personal sacrifices made by the staff of 'Defenders of the Fatherland,' acknowledging their efforts as instrumental and significant.
State Secretary and Deputy Head of the Ministry of Defense Anna Tsivileva, who also leads the 'Defenders of the Fatherland' fund, reported the current operational status of the fund. She stated, "The branch currently employs 3,800 social coordinators, of which 700 are family members of SVO participants." This statistic highlights the depth of personal investment within the organization, as many staff members have firsthand experience with the challenges faced by military families.
The fund has noted pressing needs among the veterans it supports. With about 60% of children currently under their care having suffered injuries, there is significant demand for various forms of assistance, including clothing and rehabilitation aids. Tsivileva noted the necessity of providing not only technical rehabilitation means but also basic clothing for veterans to help them reintegrate effectively back to society, asserting, "Our goal is to enliven their transition to normal life, marking these initiatives on par with providing technical rehabilitation aids, akin to how we once included vehicles for rehabilitation purposes."
The importance of this support extends beyond physical rehabilitation. Tsivileva revealed future intentions to showcase initiatives aimed at producing comfortable clothing for people with disabilities, which will be highlighted at the upcoming St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. This indicates the fund's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for veterans and their families through thoughtful, practical support.
Specific regional efforts are underway to bolster the initiative. Local authorities, particularly under acting regional head Evgeny Pervyshev's leadership, are collaborating with the fund to strengthen the support system for military operation veterans. Pervyshev stated, "Protecting the rights and interests of participants and veterans of the special military operation is our duty. We must be ready for their comprehensive and timely support, especially for their families when our heroes return home victorious."
The agreement established between the 'Defenders of the Fatherland' fund and the Tambov regional government is aimed at enhancing cooperation and support for these individuals. Pervyshev emphasized the necessity of collaborative work between the fund's regional branch and governmental bodies, indicating the potential for expanded areas of cooperation.
Beyond immediate assistance, the region aims to implement comprehensive measures for the social adaptation and professional orientation of SVO veterans, addressing the pressing needs for retraining and employment. This ambitious plan seeks not only to support veterans upon their return but also to facilitate their successful integration back to civilian life.
Overall, the meeting convened by President Putin highlights the government’s commitment to not only recognize the sacrifices made by those engaged in the SVO but also to actively assist them and their families through various programs and comprehensive care.
With the collaboration across multiple layers of society, from government to non-profit organizations, the overarching aim remains clear: ensuring the seamless transition for veterans and addressing any challenges they face post-service. It reflects the broader values of care and respect for those who have dedicated themselves to their country, showcasing not just government initiatives but community efforts to reinforce the support system surrounding these individuals.