Ukrainians in the UK Reflect on Third Christmas Away from Home

Refugees describe bittersweet emotions as they face separation from loved ones and ongoing uncertainty amid the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian refugees in the UK, including Maria Romanenko and Svetlana Tseneko, are marking their third Christmas away from their homeland since Russia's invasion in February 2022.
Maria Romanenko, a journalist in Manchester, expressed difficulty feeling festive, reflecting on the loss of her grandmother and separation from her family still in Ukraine.
Svetlana Tseneko, living in Maidenhead with her daughter, focuses on maintaining optimism for her family while wishing for an end to the war as Ukraine's collective Christmas hope.
Elena Lishchun, staying with her daughter in London, faces uncertainty over her visa expiring in March 2025, which could force her to return to Ukraine despite ongoing dangers there.
Ukrainians in the UK continue to celebrate their traditions, with community efforts providing aid to those in Ukraine and maintaining cultural connections during the holiday season.