Just a few days after the Russian attack on Ukraine a year ago, the first refugees came to Thuringia. The Association of Ukrainian Compatriots was often their first point of contact.
Erfurt (dpa/th) - The association of Ukrainian compatriots in Thuringia values the support for people who fled to the Free State before the Russian war of aggression. "It was a big challenge for the authorities," said club spokeswoman Ilona Mamiyeva of the German Press Agency. "I'm so grateful, we're grateful for how the authorities handled it." There were initial difficulties, but things have settled down since the summer. There is also continued support outside of administrative structures.
"Those who have helped us all the time continue to help us," said Mamiyeva. For example, aid supplies or housing accessories would continue to be donated. The association, which has existed since 2015, brought people from the war zone to Thuringia immediately after the Russian invasion and organized aid transports to Ukraine. A lot of this happened through family and other private contacts, for example with accommodation. In the meantime, more than 30,000 people came to Thuringia from the war zone.
According to the association, the biggest problem at the moment is finding an apartment. In order to be able to leave communal accommodation, people would have to find an apartment. This is difficult in Erfurt, for example, where the need for housing is greater, said Mamiyeva. It is less complicated to access German courses. Many Ukrainians could already communicate in everyday life. Finding a job is now a priority for many. "We're constantly being asked how to find work."
The club spokeswoman assesses the atmosphere between locals and Ukrainians living in Thuringia as "still friendly, especially in the larger cities". There are many private contacts here. She expressed understanding for the debates in Germany about arms deliveries to Ukraine. "It is clear that the answer to such questions is not easy and you have to weigh up." However, the attitude of the Ukrainians to this is clear. "They are determined to liberate their country and live in a free country - and that's why they keep fighting."
For next Friday (5:00 p.m.), the first anniversary of the Russian attack, the association has called for a demonstration on Erfurt Cathedral Square.
