Cross Dmitry Shevtsov News Today

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) on Wednesday distanced itself from its Belarus branch and said an investigation into the claims had been launched.

"Not so long ago, we conducted a survey: about 80% of the Ukrainians who have come to Belarus are not planning to return to their home country. They want to stay with their families in our country,” Dmitry Shevtsov said.

“Our country emerged victorious again, because at the beginning of this year we pulled ourselves together and did everything to make Belarusians appreciate the peace and calm in our country,” said Dmitry Shevtsov.

“We have created stocks to keep the shelter going for two weeks. If we compare the amount of aid, Belarus provided about four times more aid than foreign organizations. This help came from domestic organizations, companies, and ordinary people,” Dmitry Shevtsov noted.

“We kept working as usual during the weekend. We continue distributing hot breakfasts and lunches, food sets. Sufficient stocks of warm clothes and blankets, and other essentials have been created. Now we are studying refugees' needs in specific things and provide them with targeted assistance,” Dmitry Shevtsov said.

The refugees stranded on the Belarus-Poland border remain in the logistics center. They are provided with food, bedding and other essentials. A mobile banya was mounted near the facility. Medical assistance is also available. Humanitarian aid is delivered on a regular basis.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is ready to expand humanitarian effort in Belarus, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Francesco Rocca told reporters.

The minister thanked Francesco Rocca for coming to Belarus to assess the current situation at the border.

"Belarus issued 87 accreditations to 36 foreign media outlets. Another 40 people have permanent accreditation. These figures speak volumes about the openness of Belarus for the media,” Andrei Kuntsevich said.

At present about 2,000 refugees are staying in the temporary accommodation facility in the logistics hub. They are provided with everything they need, including food. Food is delivered to them every day.