Erfurt (dpa/th) - Thuringia's Prime Minister Bodo Ramelow has acknowledged the admission of tens of thousands of Ukrainian war refugees in the Free State. "Since the first bombs fell on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities on February 24, 2022, it was clear that there was war in Europe again," said the left-wing politician in his New Year's speech, according to the State Chancellery. One has only limited influence on the immediate course of the war. "But where we can do something, that's here."
Since the beginning of the war, tens of thousands of Ukrainians have been admitted to Thuringia, and thousands of children and young people have been integrated into the state's school system. "Both are remarkable achievements of our society that make me incredibly proud," said the 66-year-old.
The commitment of municipalities, teachers and volunteers is an investment in the future. "It is already clear that some of the people who have come to us from Ukraine would like to stay in the long term. These people should also feel invited," said Ramelow.
According to the State Chancellery, the Prime Minister's New Year's speech will be broadcast on Sunday evening (7:25 p.m.) on MDR Thuringia's television program.
