People fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine arrive at a temporary camp in Przemysl, Poland, on Monday
(Picture: REUTERS)Airbnb’s chief executive has said the company is working with its hosts to house up to 100,000 refugees fleeing Ukraine for free.
Brian Chesky announced the move in a series of tweets on Monday morning.
He wrote: “Airbnb and Airbnb.org are working with our Hosts to house up to 100,000 refugees fleeing from Ukraine, for free.
“We need help to meet this goal. The greatest need we have is for more people who can offer their homes in nearby countries, including Poland, Germany, Hungary and Romania. If you can host a refugee, go here: airbnb.org/get-involved.”
He added: “All stays are free for refugees, funded by Airbnb, Airbnb.org donors and through the generosity of Hosts.”
The United Nations says over 500,000 refugees have fled Ukraine since Vladimir Putin launched his attack last week.
1. Airbnb and https://t.co/enqjlQB0rH are working with our Hosts to house up to 100,000 refugees fleeing from Ukraine, for free
— Brian Chesky (@bchesky) February 28, 2022
The line of vehicles at the Poland-Ukraine border stretched for almost nine miles on Sunday, and those fleeing had to endure long waits in freezing temperatures overnight.
Over 100,000 people have crossed into Poland alone, according to Polish officials. An additional 66,000 refugees have entered Hungary, with more than 23,000 entering on Saturday alone, according to the Hungarian officials.
Speaking on Monday morning, Ben Wallace said he has “no doubt” the UK will do more to help Ukrainian refugees.
The Defence Secretary told BBC Radio 4's Today programme the UK has a “very generous” track record in helping those in need of aid.
“I think what I would say is, you know, our track record so far, both with Afghans and (the) Arap scheme, and indeed with the Hong Kong nationals who were suffering persecution, has been actually very generous,” he said.
“So there'’ no reason to doubt we won't continue on that path.”
He added that it is not yet clear whether the European Union's approach will be to support refugees on the border, with the hope they will be able to return to Ukraine soon, but discussions are continuing.
Pope Francis on Sunday made an impassioned call for humanitarian corridors to help refugees leave Ukraine and said those who make war should not be deluded into thinking that God is on their side.
