Hundreds of people are booking Airbnb apartments in Ukraine as a way of directly sending money to those suffering financially because of the war.
The platform had announced it would offer free, temporary housing to up 100,000 Ukrainian refugees.
But now members of the public are booking rental apartments in Ukraine’s major cities such as Kyiv so locals can receive the money.
The trend has caused Airbnb to drop its guest and host fees for Ukraine.
Another idea to help Ukrainian civilians quickly and directly: book apartments in #Ukraine on Airbnb (@Airbnb has waived all service charges) and tell the host to keep the money!
— Jessica Langer, PhD (@DrJessicaLanger) March 3, 2022
I just did this with an apartment in Kyiv!
Who’ll join me? 💙💛
(host’s name hidden for safety!) pic.twitter.com/OgGQHRGg2u
One person who shared confirmation of their booking on social media for a week in Kyiv said: “Just booked a Kyiv AirBnb for 1 week, simply as a means of getting money directly into the hands of Kiev residents.
“It’s really cheap and can make a small difference right now.”
Some of those who have benefited from the idea have expressed their gratitude.
One woman, who appeared to have benefited from the idea, said: “Your help and your letter moved me to tears. I re-read your letter several times and wept with happiness.
“It has everything that is important now: love, support, it gives additional strength. I am incredibly happy to meet new friends.
“I invite you to our free country after the war.”
Airbnb has also suspended all of its operations in Belarus and Russia in response to Putin’s invasion and bombardment of Ukraine.
The move stops users from both countries from making any bookings.
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky said: “Airbnb is suspending all operations in Russia and Belarus.”
A spokesperson later explained it would also mean users in Belarus and Russia would be restricted from making new reservations as guests.
“We certainly hope that as we look to the future, a path to peace is forged,” said the spokesperson.
