'We don’t know where we’ll be in three weeks': Ukrainians in Ireland facing uncertainty

Elena has a job, and found schools for her children — but they have to leave their accommodation in Limerick next month

Olena Stzilets with her sons, 17-year-old Stanyslav and 10-year-old Vladyslav. Originally from Kramatorsk in Ukraine, and now living in Limerick City. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

When her son cried “I don’t want to die” as their hometown was shelled at night, Elena Strilets decided to leave Kramatorsk and find somewhere safe for her children.

Their home in eastern Ukraine has consistently been on the frontlines of Russia’s attack on its neighbour, but her husband and parents have refused to leave their country.