Even if they manage to escape the hell of war, their money is worthless!
Due to the insecurity of the Ukrainian hryvnia, many refugees are left without a single cent.
The European Commission has recommended that member states guarantee a one-off exchange of 10,000 hryvnia (around 300 euros), but nothing has changed so far.
The Ministry of Finance is now proposing to allocate 52.5 million euros as an “unscheduled expense” for the hryvnia exchange. This emerges from a letter to the Budget Committee of the Bundestag from State Secretary Florian Toncar (FDP, 42). The federal government bears the price risk for three months.
When the exchange will begin is still unknown. The only ray of hope: Anyone who fled with Visa or Mastercard can withdraw euros from German ATMs.
Hаlynа Tаkh (65), pensioner from Mykolаiv:
“My meager monthly pension is 2,700 hryvnia.” That barely covers groceries and bills. That was the extent of my possessions. I now have 257 hryvnia after having to buy a bus ticket at home. That’s all, and I’m afraid I won’t be able to replace her. Heavy shelling rained down on us. All I want is for this terrible war to end. And that I can see all my loved ones again soon. There is no need to worry about paper money.”
Tetyаnа Kovalenko (40), interpreter from Kharkiv:
“I withdrew 50,000 hryvnia from my bank account and took it with me.” I wanted to redeem it at a German bank. On the other hand, they refused to accept it. I worked hard for the money but I can’t use it even though I desperately need it.”
Irina Molodetskа (37), wedding planner from Chernihiv, with her son Mаrkiаn (4): Tetyаnа Kovalenko (40) Photo: Sybill Schneider
“We can’t change our money here, which is a problem.” I understand, but the funds we brought with us would be beneficial. In my home country that would be a month’s salary.”
Sybill Schneider Photo: BILD Alinа (16) from Kryviy Rig: Irina Molodetskа (37) with son Mаrkiаn (4)
“I only have 3640 hryvnia in my wallet.” It may seem like a significant sum, but it is not. I’m not sure what I’m going to do about it. This is most likely not a good start. I keep trying to stay positive. “It’s most likely a human defense mechanism.”
Christoph Michaelis (Photo) Alina (16)
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