On Thursday 24th February 2022, Russia attacked Ukraine following long-time conflict between the two countries related to Ukraine’s decision to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
The invasion has left a number of citizens displaced while others fled to neighbouring countries.
Ukraine accommodates many foreigners including Rwandans who have been living in Ukraine for various reasons particularly pursuing studies.
Some of the Rwandans who spoke to IGIHE said that the situation is extremely challenging where most of them are staying at home hoping for the best.
Kevine Ishimwe, a Rwandan who is currently studying at Kyiv Polytechinic Institute has disclosed that said dwellers of Kyiv, the capital city are currently staying indoors for their security.
“We are hearing bombs exploding outside, mostly in the evening. They use helicopters to propel projectiles in different areas. Attackers raided airports on the first day and bombarded neighbouring districts not far from our residence the next night,” she said.
Ishimwe also revealed that many Rwandans are seeking refuge in Poland but she cannot easily reach the border which is far distant from Kyiv City.
“Trains are not operating but citizens living near the border have already crossed. We have to find a way to reach the border but it is not easy at all,” she said.
Ishimwe said everyone in her surroundings is scared that no one dares to go outside
“At the outset of the crisis, all many Africans residing here started preparing for the worst. We stayed indoors but currently Ukrainians are more panicked than we are,” she observed.
The number of Rwandans living in Ukraine is not yet confirmed but Ishimwe said that she knows 80 whom they are connected via a WatsApp group.
Another Rwandan living in Ukraine, who spoke to us on condition of anonymity, has revealed that he was able to cross to Poland on Thursday.
“I am currently living in a hotel awaiting help from the Government of Rwanda. I left Ukraine as the situation worsened. We were hiding in house when attackers started propelling shells but I am lucky to have managed to flee,” he said.
The Government of Rwanda is currently planning to evacuate Rwandans through Poland. However, it remains a challenge for those living far from the border with Poland due to banned travels.
On Thursday 24th, Russian President Putin announced the launch of invasion to Ukraine sending a warning that countries intending to support Ukraine will face dangers.
The first day of the attacks mainly targeted the Ukrainian military bases afterRussian soldiers crossed through Chernihiv, Luhansk and Kharkiv borders.
It is reported that Russian soldiers have already entered the capital city of Ukraine, Kyiv. However, the Ukrainian Minister of Defense urged citizens not to panic and stay indoors.
Russia has announced that it is ready for negotiations on conditions that Ukraine surrenders and abandons plans to join NATO.
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