The Additive Manufacturing Community Responds to the Crisis in Ukraine

Last week, the fears of many came true when Russia invaded its close neighbor, Ukraine. Fighting has been constant and it has started a humanitarian crisis not just in Ukraine itself but in neighboring countries as well as an estimated 500,000 Ukrainians have fled to safety. Already we have seen a much harsher response from countries all around the world including the United States and un the European Union. Though no country has engaged in military action against Russia, except of course Ukraine, there have been severe financial sanctions including cutting Russia off of SWIFT, resulting in a plummeting Ruble (the Russian currency).

The crisis started in February 21st when Russia officially recognized two self-proclaimed states with the full-scale invasion beginning three days later. The conflict had been anticipated for a number of weeks as Russia had sent an increased military presence, up to 100,000 soldiers, to the border despite warnings from many World leaders. The death toll on both sides is growing as well, though given the nature of war, it is difficult to get an accurate estimate. Though peace talks have been announced, it is unsure what the future holds for Ukraine. And people around the globe have responded, including in the 3D printing sector.

A map of Ukraine showing the extent of the crisis with the red indicating Russian invasion, including Crimea at the bottom (photo credits: Rr016, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What has been the response of the AM Community to Ukraine?

Though unlike the COVID-19 crisis wherein the AM community could easily provide concrete solutions through the creation of PPE and the like, many 3D printing companies and personalities have started to step up to address the war in different ways. One of the first waves has been of course messages of support for the nation, coming from some of the biggest names in the industry. Avi Reichental, co-founder and CEO of Nexa3D, expressed his support for Ukrainians, sending his thoughts and prayers and calling on world leaders to respond to the crisis.