Quick Hit - War in Ukraine #6

Welcome back to Moldova Matters. This week we’re continuing our new format called “Quick Hits” where we will write important updates on evolving stories during the week. For now, we’ll use this format to keep more regular updates moving on the Russia - Ukraine crisis and specifically how this impacts Moldova. 

Where to Donate to Support Refugees in Moldova

This will be an extremely short update to let you know that multiple donation platforms are currently in the works and we should have links tomorrow. Moldova does not have modern banking or financial systems (paypal, paying with a debit or credit card online, etc). Because of this there are efforts underway to facilitate financial transfers from US and European donors to local NGOs working on the ground. I’m coordinating with 2 such efforts and they should be online tomorrow Moldova time. So stay tuned.

We will come back with a longer update on the ongoing crisis tomorrow. In the meantime, here is a statement from President Sandu yesterday on the situation now.

“Yesterday morning we woke up in a new world, more violent, more uncertain, more unstable, a world where unprovoked war is possible and it takes its toll on our border. This is definitely not the world we hoped to live in.

The Moldovan authorities quickly mobilized and are working on high alert. We are closely following developments, including the situation in the northern and southern regions of the country.

In times like these, we think of the people, our citizens and Ukrainians, who suffer the most,

“today we all must be in solidarity with the Ukrainians." "The Republic of Moldova has shown that it supports the people of Ukraine, who need our help. Over the past 24 hours, more than 16 thousand Ukrainians arrived in Moldova, they were forced to leave their homes. Many came to relatives and friends, but state institutions are ready to help those who who do not have relatives and friends here.They receive food and basic necessities.There are transport and housing so that everyone can get to the place of accommodation.

I was very pleased to see the exemplary mobilization of people to help refugees. Many are ready to accommodate refugees in their homes and become volunteers.

Dear citizens, thank you for your solidarity and generosity during this difficult time. In this troubled time, we must count on each other, people with people, they are proud of you.

Ukraine is our friend, our relatives are there, the tragedy they go through is also our pain,” Maia Sandu said.