Many things have emerged since the war began, namely the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people. They have shown extraordinary bravery and determination as they fight for their country's existence. Their spirit and resolve is to be admired. The support for Ukraine has been fantastic. Military and humanitarian aid has been pouring in from all over the world, people have taken to the streets in protest of the invasion, there have been so many displays of solidarity.. Governments, businesses and private citizens alike have all been generous with their time, goods and money. There have been many acts of kindness reported about people taking the initative and doing what they can to help Ukraine. People care.
Estonia has been doing an excellent job from the start in supporting Ukraine. Estonia has provided more military aid to Ukraine than France and Germany because Estonia has always understood the situation. They 'get it' unlike many other western leaders who naïvely misjudged Russia and were slow to act.
Estonia has now accepted over 33,000 war refugees from Ukraine. The people are welcome in Estonia and are made to feel safe and secure away from the horrors of war. At times there were logistical issues in finding suitable accommodation for the refugees but Estonians are good at finding solutions. When hotels filled up, the government chartered a cruise ship.
Almost half of the refugees who arrived in Estonia are children. Last Monday a new Ukrainian school opened in Tallinn to support their educational needs. It's the only school in Estonia where so many Ukrainian students can study together in the one place.
Ukrainian women are finding employment in Estonia in teaching, nursing and through a new website launched by the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund (Eesti Töötukassa).
Easter is an important date on the Ukrainian calendar but sadly for many, it won't be a happy ocassion this year. May the spirit of Ukraine continue to shine and may those who are suffering find peace soon.
