While Volodymyr Zelenskyy is seen as a tireless driver in Ukraine, there is sharp criticism of Mayor Vitali Klitschko in Kiev. “He is accused of caring too much about banal things like cycle paths, but not about building bomb shelters,” said Christoph Matzl, Krone’s chief reporter, about the situation on the ground.
While luxury cars drive through the capital, people in the countryside fight for survival. Discontent is spreading among the citizens of Ukraine. Allegations of corruption are also a problem. “It is said that Klitschko is linked to corruption deals,” says Matzl. Most of all, the luxurious fleet of many leading Kiev personalities upset many people. “If you look at the fleet of these cars, these are no small things. Maseratis, Ferraris – cars around €200,000. You wonder where the money comes from. And why wouldn’t we use the money for safety?” says Matzl. But the political situation in Kiev is only part of the reality of the impressions on the ground.
“In Kiev you don’t really notice that there is a war going on at first glance. It’s normal. The humanitarian situation in Ukraine is mixed – that’s what it describes Krone chief reporter Christoph Matzl after his visit to the war zone.
“It’s not like poverty has taken control of the country here.” But those who speak to aid organizations such as Caritas see a different reality. “They clearly show where Putin has spread terror and psychological terror here with his rocket attacks.”
Outside the capital, however, a completely different picture emerges. “The situation is terrible 150 to 200 kilometers from Kiev,” Matzl reports. “There is no social system, so the people there are really dependent on the help of Caritas and other aid organizations.” Particularly drastic: without wood deliveries organized by Caritas, “people would actually freeze to death and starve.”
Caritas’ help is accepted with great gratitude. “You can certainly say that,” Matzl emphasizes. “They also hug people.” Caritas President Klaus Schwertner is often on site to help with the soup distribution, serve tea and talk to people. “There is a pat on the back and tears in the eyes.”
Watch the entire interview in the video above!
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
