Abkhazian authorities help Russian refugees from Georgia

Fourteen residents of the Zugdidi District, Russian nationals, who have applied for refuge in Abkhazia, were accepted by the republic's authorities. These are mainly young women, their children and husbands. The refugees from Zugdidi have rendered material aid.

"During the whole time, until Russian peacekeeping forces entered Zugdidi, we had lived through horror. We were oppressed for being Russians and named occupants. Basically, this was done by our neighbours, not the law enforcement bodies," said with tears a Russian woman of 35, with a baby in her hands.

"We were in a desperate situation; we couldn't even get out for buying foodstuffs and feared to speak Russian. We didn't know where to run. Being afraid for our children, after peacekeepers arrived, we phoned each other, grouped together and arrived to the Abkhazian border. We've taken nothing with us - no money or clothes. In Sukhumi we were placed into a hotel, the prime minister had a meeting with us. We were fed, provided with clothes and money, i.e., we were very warmly accepted; and we are grateful for if to the authorities of Abkhazia," said another woman-refugee.

"I'll never return to Zugdidi. All Russian schools and kindergartens are closed, Russians are not employed, and what future could be for our children?" a young woman of 25 has emphasized.

The interlocutors did not wish to tell their names, since they are strongly excited about their elderly parents who are still in Georgia.

Today, some more residents, Russian nationals from western Georgia, have arrived to the Gali District.