The war in Ukraine has displaced millions, forcing families to flee from Russian aggression.
Yet, a surprising trend has emerged as tens of thousands of Ukrainians are now returning to Russian-occupied areas in Donbas.
This unexpected movement is largely driven by worsening economic conditions and the limited support available to displaced people in Ukrainian-controlled regions.
According to Petr Andriushchenko, an advisor to the mayor of Mariupol, around 130,000 Ukrainians have returned to Russian-occupied territories in the past year.
Canceled Social Aid
Many cite severe financial strain as the main reason for their decision, according to Ziare.
The situation worsened after the Ukrainian government canceled social aid programs for internally displaced people.
Rising rental costs in major cities and limited access to credit programs like yeOselya have left displaced families with few options.
Economic struggles extend beyond housing. Jobs are scarce, and living costs continue to rise. While western Ukraine offers more opportunities, cities in the south and east are often less accommodating.
Many displaced people find these areas unwelcoming due to a lack of community support and employment opportunities.
For those choosing to return to occupied territories, the journey itself is an ordeal. With Russia closing its last land crossings into occupied Ukraine, people must now travel through Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport.
This involves a complicated route via Warsaw, Minsk, and Moscow, where returnees face long interrogations. Some report being held for hours without food or water, answering probing questions about their loyalty to Ukraine.
Despite the risks, at least 100,000 Ukrainians have managed to return to Russian-controlled areas. Local officials predict that number could grow to 300,000, though some dispute these figures as exaggerated.
