Editor’s note: The names of those coming from Russian-occupied territories have been changed for security reasons.
On the Ukraine-Belarus border, the wind cuts to the bone. Olena, a retiree from the Russian-occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, has just crossed the Volyn humanitarian corridor after nearly four years of occupation. The journey through the Volyn humanitarian corridor was perilous, with harsh weather conditions complicating the escape for many. The region has been a focal point of the ongoing conflict since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, and the humanitarian crisis has intensified as the war grinds on.
Residents in the occupied territories have faced severe restrictions, including limited access to basic necessities like food, water, and medicine. Many have been displaced, with families separated and children missing out on education. The Volyn corridor, one of the last open routes for refugees, has become a lifeline for those seeking safety in neighboring countries.
However, not all who have fled believe they should return. Some fear for their safety and the potential for renewed hostilities. Others remain under the belief that the situation could improve, or they have family and property still in the region. Despite the risks, the desire for safety has driven many to leave, even as the war shows no signs of ending soon.
International organizations have called for increased aid and support for those displaced by the conflict. The United Nations and various NGOs continue to provide assistance, though the scale of the need remains daunting. The conflict has not only displaced millions but has also strained international relations and humanitarian resources.
As the war continues, the stories of those who have fled or remain in occupied territories serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of the conflict. For Olena and others like her, the fight for survival and safety continues, with no clear end in sight.