War leaves visible and invisible marks. For many returning from the front line, vision loss or impairment becomes more than a health issue; it becomes a boundary between life before and life after. The “Restoring Sight for Defenders” initiative exists to bridge that boundary — giving those who protected Ukraine the chance to see clearly again, live fully, and regain independence.

This project is implemented by the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine in partnership with the Vasyl Shevchyk Eye Microsurgery Medical Center, the International Charity Foundation for the Advancement of Medicine, the Hippocrates Medical Center, and Municipal Hospital No. 4 of Zaporizhzhia.

The program is designed for those who experienced visual impairment while performing military duties or after returning to civilian life. Veterans, active service members, individuals discharged due to health conditions, and those living with war-related disability are all eligible to receive care free of charge.

Participants may access comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, surgical and laser treatment for eye conditions, as well as treatment of facial scarring. Importantly, no proof is required regarding when the condition developed — whether before, during, or after active service.

To apply for care, eligible individuals may register by phone in the region most convenient to them:
Kyiv & Chernihiv: +38 0462 90 90 90
Dnipro: +38 0976 72 51 43; +38 0664 93 65 13
Zaporizhzhia: +38 0672 78 97 73

During registration, please mention that the request relates to the “Restoring Sight for Defenders of Ukraine” program. At the appointment, a veteran or UBD identification document must be presented to confirm eligibility.

Project locations:
Chernihiv — Peremohy Avenue, 119A
Kyiv — Kyltseva Street, 5B
Dnipro — Khersonska Street, 10A
Zaporizhzhia — Metalurhiv Avenue, 9

Additional ophthalmology clinics across Ukraine are invited to join the initiative. Together, we can help restore sight, confidence, and quality of life to more defenders.