Today in Rome, during the International Ukraine Recovery Conference, Lviv City Mayor Andriy Sadovyy and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania Kęstutis Budrys signed a memorandum on a new stage of cooperation for the development of the UNBROKEN rehabilitation center in Briukhovychi.

The project involves the reconstruction of a historical villa built in 1907, which will become a space for mental rehabilitation and art therapy. It will include facilities for individual and group sessions, a library for patients, and a relaxation space with a café.

The Lithuanian government is investing €620,000 in this phase. Of this amount, €167,000 comes from fines imposed on companies for violating EU sanctions against russia. These sanction-related funds will specifically finance mental health support services for veterans and war-affected individuals. This is both a symbolic and just gesture.

“Funds paid for bypassing sanctions against russia will go to support our veterans. This is symbolic and fair. Here in Lviv, our goal is not only to heal the body but also to heal the soul. And the fact that Lithuania understands this — is invaluable. This is more than financial support; it is a gesture of humanity. Thank you for the trust and the partnership that saves lives,” said Lviv City Mayor Andriy Sadovyy.

“It is deeply symbolic and, at the same time, fair that the money paid for violations of sanctions against Russia will now be used for the recovery of Ukraine’s defenders. Lithuania stands with Ukraine not just in words, but in concrete, effective actions,” emphasized Kęstutis Budrys, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania.

In total, Lithuania has already allocated over €5.6 million for the development of the rehabilitation center in Briukhovychi. The new UNBROKEN center building is expected to open by the end of 2025. Once completed, it will be able to accommodate up to 120 patients — both military personnel and civilians affected by russian aggression.

The project is being implemented in cooperation with the Lviv City Council, the Lithuanian Central Project Management Agency (CPVA), and with the involvement of Lithuanian furniture manufacturer Narbutas, which will fully furnish the facility.