BUCHAREST, 28 February 2022 – Children and mothers are fleeing Ukraine extremely distressed after their families were torn apart as Russian military operations forced thousands of families from their homes to seek safety, Save the Children said today.
Fighting has forced children and families to seek refuge in neighbouring countries, with more than 500,000 people displaced, according to the UN. Already, more than 67,000 people have crossed into Romania, some travelling on foot with minimal belongings.
As bitter temperatures in the region continue, displaced children have faced long nights and days exposed to brutal conditions.
Save the Children teams in Romania reported seeing distressed children and mothers beside themselves with worry as many left their fathers and husbands behind after authorities ordered Ukrainian men aged 18-60 to stay and fight.