Displacement often brings stories of resilience and adaptation, but for many Ukrainians uprooted by war, survival has meant returning to Russian-occupied territories.
Despite the risks and challenges of life under occupation, the lack of adequate support in Ukraine has driven some to make this difficult choice.
Nearly three years into the conflict, many internally displaced Ukrainians are struggling to find stability.
With limited housing, insufficient financial aid, and rising unemployment, some are returning to territories occupied by Russia.
According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Social Policy, over 1,200 displaced persons have returned to Russian-controlled areas in the past nine months, though unofficial estimates suggest the number could be far higher.
Parliamentarian Maksym Tkachenko once claimed that 150,000 Ukrainians had left government-controlled territories for Russian-occupied areas, but later retracted his statement, according to Digi24.
Still, other officials have pointed to systemic failures in Ukraine’s response to displaced citizens.
Challenges Under Occupation
Those returning to occupied areas face grim realities.
Residents describe persistent shortages of basic necessities, crumbling infrastructure, and inadequate medical care.
Schools are poorly staffed, utilities are unreliable, and state services often require Russian citizenship.
Olena Morozova, who left Russian-occupied Lysychansk, recounted her family’s hardships under occupation.
For two years, they lived without electricity or water and had limited access to food and medical care.
While her family eventually moved to Kyiv, others have returned to Lysychansk, citing lower living costs and familiarity despite the harsh conditions.
Government Aid Falls Short
At the onset of the war, Ukraine provided financial assistance and housing for displaced individuals.
However, recent policy changes have tightened eligibility for aid, leaving many without support.
Monthly payments for displaced adults average $45, while families often struggle with soaring rents.
Despite government claims of offering free housing, bureaucratic delays and poor management have left thousands waiting.
Temporary shelters remain underused, while activists criticize the state for failing to mobilize available resources.
