As part of the United States’ strong support of Ukraine and for those suffering as a result of Russia’s unprovoked war, U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See Joseph Donnelly, visited today with Ukrainian refugees at the Community of Sant’Egidio’s Refugee Welcome Center in Rome.

Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine has created one of the fastest-growing humanitarian crises in decades.  The Community of Sant’Egidio operates a “Refugee Welcome Center” in Rome that provides services for refugees from across the globe, with a particular focus now on those from Ukraine.  The center provides support to those arriving from Ukraine, most of whom are women and children, and offers shelter, clothing, food, and assistance finding permanent housing for those temporarily housed in the reception center.

The United States shares the Community of Sant’Egidio’s commitment to refugees:  the United States is the largest single-country donor of humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and we are coordinating with our European partners, humanitarian organizations, the UN, and other organizations to support Ukraine’s humanitarian response.

Ambassador Donnelly heard heartbreaking stories of people forced to flee their homes, suffer separation from their loved ones, as well as their appreciation for Sant’Egidio in welcoming them and helping them to meet their basic needs after such desperation.

The Ambassador said “the United States affirms our commitment to do whatever we can to support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.  We are here today to better understand your challenges in this terrible time.  I am so glad that you are safe here in Italy.”