Have survived Russia of 90s, want war to stop, say citizens of Russia and Ukraine staying in Goa
India Today
Denis and Victoria, citizens of Ukraine and Russia respectively are against the ongoing war. Both of them have been in Goa and expressed concern over their countries engaging in a full-scale war.
In the coastal state of Goa, one can easily spot several Russians and Ukrainians. Areas like Arambol, Morjim and Ashwem house a majority of such nationalities. There are some who’ve been in the coastal paradise for years while many others are here simply to spend their holidays. And then there are many who wish to return home as soon as possible but cannot do so because of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
India Today TV met several citizens from both countries and enquired if there was any tension that had developed after the war and also the problems their near and dear ones are facing back home.
READ | How Putin and Zelenskyy's masculinity are at war
Denis Chernenko, a Ukraine national, has been in Goa for the last eight years. He studied in St Petersburg and his family resides there. But his grandmother is still in Ukraine and stuck because of the war. To make matters worse Denis’s mother, who holds a Russian passport, too is stuck in Ukraine.
“My grandmother is 86 years old. She is diabetic and too old to even socialise. There is a war going on and she doesn’t want to leave her house,” said Denis.
Denis elaborates that his grandmother stays in Vinnytsia, Ukraine and has been ill for some time. “My mother went to see her sometime back and she too is stuck. I feel so helpless and frustrated now. I want to go and save my family but I can’t go because of the war. I cannot even meet my mother and grandmother. They are living in constant fear and supporting each other and I am very scared for their safety.” he said.
ALSO READ | Saint Vladimir: Is there a religious angle to the invasion of Ukraine?
