For war-weary Ukrainians, Poland’s Wroclaw offers refuge, solidarity | Ground report
India Today
In times of crisis, Poland’s Wroclaw has opened its door to welcome Ukrainian refugees and show solidarity with them during these tough times. Here’s a ground report from the city that is currently sheltering over a million Ukrainians who have fled the war at home.
Ever since Russia declared war on Ukraine in February, millions of Ukrainians have fled their nation, with Poland taking the majority of refugees. As thousands and thousands of Ukrainians pour into their country to seek shelter, Polish citizens are leaving no stone unturned in helping the refugees and showing solidarity with them in this time of crisis.
India Today reached Wroclaw, the city which has taken in the maximum number of refugees in Poland. Wroclaw, which is called the twin city of Ukraine’s Lviv, is now a shelter for the civilians fleeing their war-torn nation. It’s a home away from home for the fleeing Ukrainian civilians.
Follow the latest upodates on the Russia-Ukraine war
Anna (22) is a photographer from Ukraine’s Kherson, the city that came under heavy shelling by the Russian forces. Forced to flee her home and take refuge in neighbouring Poland, Anna now spends her days at the market in the heart of Wraclow town. She captures people’s smile with her camera and gifts it to them. Seeing them smiling, Anna momentarily forgets her sorrow. For Anna, this is not to while away her time, its her livelihood.
Recalling how the city welcomed fleeing Ukrainians with open arms, Anna’s eyes are filled with tears. The city of Wroclaw has given her assurance and hope, as well as an identity.
Like Anna, about 2.5 million refugees are living in the cities of Poland. The residents of this city have even opened the doors of their houses.
India Today met fourteen-year-old Zoriana, who just had her birthday. She couldn’t stop crying at the thoughts of her father. This story of missing loved ones finds resonance among countless Ukrainian refugees. Maria, another woman who had to escape the war in Ukraine, narrated her ordeal to the India Today team. Maria and her children fled Tarnopol near Lviv but they hope that they can return to their home soon.