As global governments urge citizens to leave Ukraine amid heightened Russia-Ukraine tensions, CGTN's on-the-ground interviews reveal resilience and anxiety among residents near Kharkiv—just 30 miles from the Russian border. Local teacher Olena Petrenko told reporters, \"We're accustomed to uncertainty, but seeing embassies evacuate feels like a warning bell.\"
While some residents expressed concerns about escalating conflict, others dismissed alarm. \"My family has lived here for generations. We won’t abandon our homes without clear danger,\" said mechanic Ivan Kovalenko. Recent data shows over 60% of Kharkiv's population remains in the city despite advisories.
Business owners highlighted economic fears. \"If tourists and foreign workers leave, our recovery from the pandemic slows,\" noted café owner Mariya Sokolova. Meanwhile, tech startups report increased remote work requests from international partners.
The mixed reactions underscore the complex realities for border communities balancing safety, economy, and patriotism as global attention intensifies.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
