PM Plenkovic: 1,217 Ukrainian refugees have arrived in Croatia

"Here, at the Zagreb point, are more than 70 people, mainly women and children. Some are in Krapinske Toplice and Osijek," he told the press during a visit to Motel Plitvice outside Zagreb, one of the three reception points for Ukrainian refugees in Croatia.

Plenkovic was accompanied by Ukrainian Ambassador Vasyl Kyrylych, Civil Protection Director Damir Trut, and Health Minister Vili Beros.

He said most of the Ukrainians who had arrived in Croatia owned houses here or were staying with their friends and acquaintances.

Interior Minister Davor Bozinovic is visiting the Ukraine-Hungary border today to facilitate the transfer of refugees to Croatia, he added.

"We are making comprehensive preparations for the reception of our friends, displaced persons who found themselves in the situation of having to leave their homes following this brutal Russian aggression on Ukraine... I'm afraid that this is just the beginning and that the number of people who will be coming from Ukraine in the days ahead will be even bigger, but they are welcome."

Speaking of refugees' health, Minister Beros said their COVID status was being checked upon arrival.

"We've had some positive antigen test results and that's why we instructed all hospitals in time to ensure isolation premises," he added.

The City of Zagreb has provided a medical team for the refugees at Motel Plitvice, including psychiatric and psychosocial help, Beros said.

Citizens who wish to take in the refugees can contact the Civil Protection Directorate at [email protected].

"It's important that the accommodation is adequate," said Trut.

He added that a Croatian relief convoy had left for Ukraine recently and that another one had departed for Moldova today.

Ambassador Kyrylych: Plenkovic was and remains a friend of Ukraine

Ambassador Kyrylych thanked Croatia for its support to the Ukrainian people and said the Russian aggression was continuing.

"Last night there was a tragic attempt to shell the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe. It has not happened yet in the history of humankind that one state, and here I should say a terrorist state, has shelled a nuclear power plant. The world should give a strong, absolutely simple and clear response to the Russian aggression," he said.

The ambassador added that Plenkovic "always has been and remains a big friend of Ukraine."