At the moment, more than 300 refugees arrive in Luxembourg every month, up from 200 recorded during the summer months. To cater to this elevated demand, a large heated tent able to house 500 to 600 first arrivals has been set up outside of the Audit Court in Kirchberg. The tent itself is divided into several sub tents, which usually house up to twelve people.
Minister Asselborn then drew attention to the widespread problem of underaged refugees travelling alone. “I am talking about children as young as eight”, underlined the politician from the Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP). 117 children are currently living in one of the homes by the National Office of Admission (ONA).
Minister Asselborn elaborated that minors are often sent ahead so that they can get the refugee status and make it easier for families to be reunited and stay together. He argued that it is impossible not to side with kids in this situation.
The LSAP politician also expressed disappointment over the EU’s failed migration policies and the fact that countries did not manage to create a path for legal migration. Nevertheless, Luxembourg continues adjusting the number of beds available to refugees on a regular basis. The number of spots has increased from 4,000 to 6,400 since 2020.
The diplomat also addressed Russia’s recent decision to mobilise parts of the population in an attempt to strengthen its armed forces fighting in Ukraine. “The mobilisation might turn the tide”, he said and drew attention to the fact that conscription makes it evident that everybody is affected by the war.
Minster Asselborn explained that Russian authorities did not set a limit for the amount of people to be mobilised. Men up to the age of 60 are currently being contacted. A refusal to fight can be punished by up to 15 years of incarceration. A significant number of Russians have since tried leaving the country. By now, a plane ticket from Russia to Turkey costs up to €18,000.
The question of how to deal with Russians fleeing from conscription now needs to be addressed. European ambassadors are currently discussing the issue in Brussels, conveyed Minister Asselborn. Eastern countries like Poland and the Czech Republic share the view that Russian men should remain in their home country and fight against President Putin and his regime. Most western states, including the Grand Duchy, believe that doors cannot be fully shut to Russian refugees.
Minister Asselborn concluded the press briefing by saying that EU officials are currently discussing an eighth package of sanctions in Brussels. These measures are mainly designed to hurt those organising the sham referenda in eastern Ukraine.
