This solidarity with the Ukrainian population is palpable throughout the region. “Last September, we thought that some of the displaced people would be able to return home. But during my stay in Ukraine on 10 and 11 of October, 2022, the war was again very present,” says Sébastien. “Bombings were taking place in several places and hopes of returning were dashed. Fear took over.”
The support shown by many countries means a lot to the Ukrainians. “But the approaching winter is a source of great concern. Most people have no heating anymore, because the Russian army has bombed the infrastructure. This has catastrophic consequences for the energy supply. If the winter is too harsh, many will have to flee to other European countries.”
In Ukraine, an electric heater costs about 40 euros and a warm blanket 15 euros. A simple stove, on which you can also cook, costs 100 euros. More sophisticated stoves cost up to 400 euros.