Grenoble, France and Tchernivtsi, Ukraine, formalized a partnership on February 5, 2026, with the signing of a declaration of intent at Grenoble’s city hall. The agreement aims to establish a decentralized cooperation framework between the two cities, according to a statement released by the city of Grenoble.
The signing took place as the war in Ukraine, initiated by Russia in February 2022, continues. Grenoble Mayor Éric Piolle and representatives from Tchernivtsi, including First Deputy Mayor Yevheniy Makhovikov and Minister-Counselor Kostiantyn Ablazov of the Ukrainian Embassy in France, were present for the ceremony. Officials emphasized the importance of solidarity between European municipalities in the face of a conflict challenging principles of sovereignty, freedom, and democracy.
Tchernivtsi is located in southwestern Ukraine, near the Romanian border. The partnership is intended to move beyond symbolic gestures of support for Ukraine, addressing the ongoing threat to the daily lives of Ukrainian citizens, city officials stated. The initiative builds on existing efforts to support Ukraine, including the “Éclosions d’Ukraine” event cycle organized by the Maison internationale de Grenoble.
In a related move, the city of Grenoble recently inaugurated Place Lessia Ukraïnka, named in honor of the prominent Ukrainian writer Lesia Ukrainka. This dedication further demonstrates Grenoble’s commitment to recognizing Ukrainian culture, and history.
The cooperation between Grenoble and Tchernivtsi will initially focus on the areas of education, health, and culture, as confirmed by a separate announcement from Place Grenet. Further details regarding specific projects and timelines are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Earlier this year, an ambulance damaged by gunfire was displayed in Grenoble as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the realities of the war in Ukraine and to solicit donations for medical vehicles used on the front lines. The display, organized by 46 Franco-Ukrainian associations, highlighted the ongoing violence and its impact on civilian infrastructure.