The war started in Ukraine has affected the lives of tens of millions of people, security and peace in the region. Moldova condemns Russia’s military aggression against our neighbor and friend Ukraine and has called for an end to hostilities since day one, President Maia Sandu told a news briefing after meeting with EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell, and with Olivery Varhelyi, Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement.

Moldovan citizens, border guards, customs officers, carabinieri, social workers, doctors, rescuers and others work every day to provide support to people seeking refuge in Moldova, said the president. More than 3,000 people signed up as volunteers to help the refugees. Refugees at the border are welcomed by citizens from all over Moldova, who offer them food, transport or accommodation.

Over the past few days, the citizens of Moldova have once again demonstrated that they are European in deeds and aspirations, stated Maia Sandu , adding that the future of the country and its citizens belongs in Europe. “Rapid progress on this path will help us overcome the dramatic consequences of developments in our region”, she added.

Moldova now hosts over 51,000 Ukrainians refugees, including 19,000 children. Since February 24 and until this morning, more than 112,000 Ukrainians entered Moldova, but more than 60,000 refugees left shortly for other destinations.