Lawmaker Andriy Herus Defends Roland Garros Appearance as Official Business Trip

Andriy Herus's Visit to Roland Garros

According to Главком: Andriy Herus, a Ukrainian parliamentarian from the 'Servant of the People' party, has stated that his presence at the Roland Garros tennis tournament in Paris was part of a work-related mission. He explained that the Ukrainian delegation was engaged in discussions concerning energy sector support and the country's reconstruction.

Herus, alongside colleagues from the energy committee, held meetings with representatives of French government bodies, international advisors, and donor organizations. The lawmakers focused on several key topics:

• energy sector reforms
• rebuilding Ukraine's power system
• advancing renewable energy sources
• support initiatives for Ukraine

French Support and the Value of Partnership

During these talks, it was highlighted that France is implementing a €71 million aid package for Ukraine, with a significant portion earmarked for energy projects. The potential launch of additional generation capacity-nearly 200 MW-was also on the agenda. Andriy Herus underscored the critical role of backing Ukraine:

“France is a very important partner for us, offering support across various sectors, including energy. In Paris, we were on a working trip as a group of deputies from the energy committee and held several meetings.”

Following the official meetings, Herus attended matches featuring Ukrainian tennis players, such as Elina Svitolina, Marta Kostyuk, and 15-year-old Polina Sklyar. He remarked: “Elina and Marta are more than just athletes. They are individuals who carry Ukraine’s spirit to the world and help our children even during wartime.” Herus also emphasized that all trip expenses were personally covered, stating: “The costs for my business trip were paid out of my own pocket.”

It is worth recalling that in January 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers passed Resolution No. 69, which significantly restricted foreign travel for officials during martial law. Government members, lawmakers, judges, prosecutors, heads of state agencies, and local government representatives can generally cross the border only for official assignments. Exceptions are allowed for medical treatment abroad, visiting minor children, or attending the funerals of close relatives.

Herus’s trip to Paris highlights the active role of Ukrainian politicians in international diplomacy, particularly regarding energy assistance for the country. Given the critical state of the energy sector, collaboration with France could be a key step in restoring power infrastructure and ensuring Ukraine’s energy security. At the same time, adherence to regulations on officials’ travel during martial law underscores the seriousness of the national situation and the need for oversight of such journeys.

In light of Ukraine's ongoing challenges, the importance of international support is more crucial than ever. President Zelenskyy's recent recognition of four European cities with honorary distinctions highlights the strengthening of ties and solidarity across the continent. For more on this initiative and its significance for Ukraine, see our detailed coverage on the honorary awards.