The Estonian MP collected 30,000 euros for the Ukrainian army during a bicycle ride from Tallinn to Kyiv

Member of the Estonian Parliament Kristo Enn Vaga (Estonian Reform Party) arrived in Kyiv on May 2 after a week-long bicycle ride through the Baltic States, Poland and Ukraine.

The 1,700-kilometer bike ride was implemented as part of the “War is just one bike ride away” campaign dedicated to supporting Ukraine. It aims to draw attention to the stark reality that war is closer than we think – just a bike ride away – and to encourage the public to donate to buy the 4×4 trucks and drones needed by the Ukrainian army.

During the “War is only one bike ride away” campaign, 31,000 euros have been collected so far. Although the bike ride has ended, the fundraising will continue. “Ukraine’s fight for victory is a marathon, not a sprint, so any help we can provide is essential to victory!” emphasizes Kristo Enn Vaga, a member of the Estonian Parliament and campaign implementer.

“Maybe this trip was difficult for me, but it is in no way comparable to what the Ukrainian army does every day for the whole of Europe. This is an extremely critical moment for Ukraine, they need this help,” Vaga said, emphasizing Ukraine’s crucial role in our sovereignty and in defense of freedom. The campaign implemented by Vaga has gained wide attention and also inspired other cyclists to join him in several stages of the journey.

Donations are collected in cooperation with the NAFO organization with the aim of providing cars and FPV drones for the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces UAV Unit and the 79th Brigade. €18,000 is needed to buy two trailers equipped with night vision cameras, integrated drone jammers and clay tires, while €14,000 is needed to buy 35 FPV drones. This equipment is critical for Ukrainian soldiers fighting for freedom on the front lines every day.

As part of the “War is just one bike ride away” campaign, Kristo Ann Vaga started a 1,700 km bike ride from Tallinn to Kyiv on April 26 to show support for Ukraine and emphasize the threat of war. His aim was to draw attention to the stark reality that war is often closer than we think – just a bike ride away.

Estonian politician Kristo Enn Vaga is a former professional cyclist who has represented the Estonian national team in various international competitions and spent two years in France as part of an amateur club. He also won the championship title in the 2023 Baltic Road Championship in the amateur category.

Christo Ann Vaga. Photo: Publicity image