On Thursday, March 3, the European Travel Commission (ETC) issued a statement condemning the Russian Federation’s military aggression while also expressing sympathy for the people of Ukraine.
Airbnb and Lithuanian website for aiding Ukrainian refugees
ETC has also stated that they are prepared to provide Ukrainian refugees with transportation, shelter, and food. Furthermore, the Lithuanian authorities have launched a website and phone line where Ukrainian refugees can get some advice on relocating to Vilnius.
On the other hand, ETC’s associate member, Airbnb is providing free housing to about 100,000 Ukrainians, who already have been displaced by the war. Train companies have also shown their solidarity by providing free transportation to Ukrainian refugees.
According to the ETC, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia will harm neighbouring countries’ tourism and travel sectors, which have already begun to recover from the pandemic’s damage.
Humanitarian Assistance
As announced by President von der Leyen, €500 million from the EU budget will be used to address the tragic humanitarian consequences of the war, both within Ukraine and beyond.
A total of €90 million in humanitarian aid, including €85 million for Ukraine and €5 million for Moldova, is already in place to provide food, water, health care, and shelter to the most vulnerable people.
Millions of items, including vehicles, medical kits, tents, blankets, and sleeping bags, have already reached those in need in Ukraine, thanks to the largest-ever activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism in response to an emergency, while additional assistance is being delivered to neighbouring Moldova, Poland, and Slovakia to support all those fleeing the war.
Sanctions on Russia by EU
The EU and its Member States are protecting people fleeing war in Ukraine by increasing humanitarian assistance in Ukraine and providing financial and operational support to the Member States and Moldova.
The EU has also reacted swiftly and decisively to Russia’s aggression by imposing severe sanctions on Russia, which will have far-reaching consequences.
EU providing temporary Residence permits, access to education and labour markets
On March 2, the European Commission proposed activating the Temporary Protection Directive in order to provide more assistance to people fleeing the Ukraine conflict.
According to the proposal, the EU will provide temporary assistance to those fleeing the war by granting them residence permits as well as access to education and the labour market.
Published by – Kiruthiga K
Edited by – Kritika Kashyap
