By 10,000 Ukrainians apply to the UK for sanctuary
Over 10,000 people who have fled Ukraine amid the Russian invasion have applied to the UK for sanctuary in the space of 48 hours.
But according to the latest reports, only 50 have been granted visas so far.
Last week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that refugees would be permitted to join immediate family members already residing in the UK.
He said: “In the last days the world has witnessed awe-inspiring displays of bravery and heroism from the Ukrainian people in response to those who seek to obliterate their freedom by force.
“The UK will not turn our backs in Ukraine’s hour of need.
“We are providing all the economic and military support we can to help those Ukrainians risking everything to protect their country.”
Despite this, the government is now facing mounting criticism over the failure to relax visa requirements.
Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said the Home Office is “completely failing”.
She tweeted: “This is too slow. Too many hoops for desperate families to have to jump through.”
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin labelled the UK’s process as “inhumane.”
“The British must put their rhetoric into action, I’ve heard the big words of generosity from Mr (Boris) Johnson,” he added.
But Home Secretary Priti Patel said the UK is “doing everything possible” to speed up efforts to grant visas to Ukrainians.
This comes as the EU announces plans to take in all Ukrainian refugees for up to three years – they will not be expected to apply for asylum.
Updates to follow.
