Lehigh Times

The Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Capital Police will be sending body armor to Ukraine, and the move was recently applauded by Gov. Tom Wolf.

According to a March 23 release, the donated equipment will be sent to the Vermont State Police, receive federal regulatory approval and then be shipped off to Ukraine. The Wolf Administration has been working with federal agencies to get the approval. The equipment will be used for people assisting in humanitarian and lifesaving work as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. 

“It’s wrong that Russia’s attack on Ukraine made this necessary, but I’m proud of both our State and Capitol police for their support of the people of Ukraine,” said Gov. Wolf. “This small effort will make a world of difference for the humanitarian and rescue workers facing danger every day.”

The PSP will be donating about 90 used, nearly expired vests that otherwise would have been destroyed. The Capitol Police will be donating 24 similar used vests and 15 ballistic helmets. PSP Colonel Robert Evanchick said that this equipment will be going to “those who desperately need it.” He said that he is “heartened” to know that the vests are going to be put to good use. Capitol Police Superintendent Joe Jacob also said that he was honored to help the cause.

“Every day, the men and women of the Pennsylvania Capitol Police take pride in carrying out their duties to ensure the safety of our citizens and protect their way of life,” Jacob said. “We are honored to be a part of efforts to help the citizens of the Ukraine do the same through the donation of this protective equipment.”

The Wolf Administration has made continual efforts to assist Ukraine during the invasion, as the state is home to more than 122,000 Ukrainians which is the second most out of any state. This has been through taking steps to sanction Russia, supporting divesting financially from Russia and opening arms to fleeing Ukrainians. The state also has business connections with Ukraine, as it has become a major player in the IT market as well as food production and concrete pavers.

“I have repeatedly joined with President Biden and other leaders across the globe to condemn the unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russia, and we have and will continue to take real, meaningful actions to support Ukraine,” Gov. Wolf said in a March 7 release.