EU Poland Ukraine Refugees
Nastya Podorozhnya stands in the kitchen of the shelter which the Martynka non-profit is running in Krakow, Poland, Thursday, July 2, 2026.
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A Ukrainian migrant in Poland has faced online hate despite her efforts to help others. Nastya Podorozhnya founded a support group called Martynka for Ukrainian women escaping violence. The shelter in Krakow has helped more than 100 women and children. Polish volunteers initially welcomed refugees. But anti-Ukrainian sentiment has grown. Many Ukrainians have reported discrimination as support wanes. Martynka struggles with funding as international aid declines. Podorozhnya has emphasized the importance of helping vulnerable refugees. She warns that without support, they could face homelessness or substance abuse. She believes Martynka is fulfilling a role the Polish state should address.
