"Person of the Year" Award in Diplomacy — a Symbol of Gratitude for Leadership, Support, and Dedication to Ukraine
Head of the State Agency on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving of Ukraine (SAEE), Hanna Zamazieieva, presented the “Person of the Year” Award in Diplomacy to His Excellency Ole Egberg Mikkelsen, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Denmark to Ukraine.
This prestigious award is not only a recognition of personal achievements, but also a deep expression of gratitude for the strategic partnership and significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine’s energy security, resilience, and international standing. The award embodies national respect for those who stand with Ukrainians in the fight for freedom, recovery, and a better future.
Together with prominent Ukrainian diplomat Oleh Shamshur, former Ambassador of Ukraine to the USA and France, the Head of SAEE honored a person who has consistently, firmly, and selflessly supported Ukraine for over five years — both during the most challenging moments and in daily, tireless efforts to bring Ukraine closer to victory.
“I have personally known Mr. Ole for several years and am continually impressed by his energy, drive, and unwavering determination. He works tirelessly, never missing a key event — even if he only has 30 minutes.
He does not shy away from danger: wearing a helmet and bulletproof vest, he personally launched a wind power plant in a frontline region near Mykolaiv. Thanks to his efforts, in early 2023, the Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visited Mykolaiv with her delegation — a powerful symbol of friendship, leadership, and genuine support,” emphasized Hanna Zamazieieva.
The Embassy of Denmark has become a model of responsible international leadership.
As early as spring 2022, Denmark was among the first to assume patronage over the Mykolaiv region. This was more than an act of solidarity — it was a strategic action plan. In Mykolaiv, the first and only foreign diplomatic office in Ukraine was opened, allowing effective coordination of humanitarian aid, infrastructure recovery, and development of energy projects under wartime conditions.
A particularly impactful initiative has been the creation and operation of the Mykolaiv Regional Office for Decarbonization and Energy Efficiency. The partnership between SAEE and the Danish Embassy team exemplifies systemic cooperation, expertise, and tangible outcomes.
The office has been operating for the past two years. Its work includes supporting municipalities in implementing energy-efficient solutions, organizing training programs, experience exchanges, and providing technical assistance — from concept to realization. It has become a hub for cooperation between local authorities, businesses, donors, and experts, promoting sustainable community development.
Since 2022, the Kingdom of Denmark has provided Ukraine with over €8.3 billion in aid, 90% of which has supported the defense sector — one of the highest levels among international donors. Denmark was also the first to deliver F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The number of official visits from the Danish side has reached 35 in just two years, highlighting their deep commitment and attention.
The “Person of the Year” Award in Diplomacy is a well-deserved recognition of monumental efforts, courage, and true leadership. It is a symbol of Ukraine’s gratitude and a testament to the fact that diplomacy is not just about words, but — above all — about meaningful action.
We express our sincere thanks to Ambassador Ole Egberg Mikkelsen and the Kingdom of Denmark for their steadfast support, genuine partnership, and belief in Ukraine.
