Ukraine’s Recovery and EU Path – Danish Lessons

In this episode of “Off the Record,” Canadian Ambassador to Ukraine Natalka Cmoc sits down with Danish Ambassador Ole Egberg Mikkelsen for a candid discussion on defense, recovery, and reforms. The Danish Model: From emptying stockpiles to buying from Ukrainian producers, including the Bogdana howitzer – faster delivery, lower cost, frontline service, and jobs in Ukraine. A true win-win. Why Mykolaiv? From emergency water supplies and plywood for windows to public transport, waste collection, and infrastructure – Denmark is helping restore essential services and livelihoods in a city whose DNA is shipbuilding. Risk insurance for business: Denmark’s Ukraine Fund now covers war-related risks, opening the door for private investment. The first flagship project? Tomato processing — bringing workers and families back to their communities. Youth & Education: Rebuilding dorms, partnering with Mykolaiv’s Shipbuilding University, returning offline education, and fostering civic engagement through initiatives like the Youth Forum. EU Path: Denmark and Lithuania guide Ukraine on reforms and pre-accession programs, despite obstacles in the EU Council, sharing lessons from EU enlargement processes. Volunteers: Every week, Danish volunteers deliver vehicles, generators, and aid, showing the impact citizens can have in supporting Ukraine. This episode goes beyond policy, highlighting the human side of diplomacy and why strong partnerships – and local trust – matter most.