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Eurostar offers Ukrainians free travel to UK

Eurostar is offering Ukrainian nationals free travel to London St Pancras International from stations in France, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Hundreds of thousands have fled Ukraine since Russian forces invaded last week.

A Eurostar spokesperson said Ukrainian nationals can access free Eurostar travel by showing their passport and valid visa to a member of the company’s station team who will then issue the ticket to travel to London.

Eurostar services operator from Paris Nord, Brussels-Midi, Lille Europe and Amsterdam Central stations.

The statement added: “We are aware that the UK government is regularly reviewing the criteria for Ukrainian refugees to enter the UK, and would strongly recommend Ukrainian nationals contact the British Embassy or check the UK government website for the latest information on visa requirements.”


On Tuesday (March 1), British prime minister Boris Johnson said the UK could take in 200,000 or more Ukrainian refugees as the government extended its scheme to more people fleeing the war.

The changes followed criticism that the UK is doing less than EU countries to help those escaping the conflict.

Manuel Cortes, general secretary of transport union TSSA, commented: “Our union warmly welcomes Eurostar’s offer of free travel for Ukrainian nationals heading to Britain and we praise the company for this practical act of support and solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

“Our members working at Eurostar are proud of their employer’s approach and will support Ukrainian passengers in their time of need.

“Our union joins with the voices across our movement in condemning the actions of Russia and calling for an end to the illegal and unprovoked bombardment of Ukraine.

“These are dark and dangerous days. We call for humanitarian law to be upheld and send solidarity to the people of Ukraine. We support all efforts that lead to peace and social justice.”

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