The Local Government Criticises a Lack of Communication before Kyiv Declaration
Torrevieja’s local government has expressed frustration and disappointment after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced, without prior consultation, that the city would host the ‘House of Ukraine’, a new centre aimed at assisting displaced Ukrainians in Spain.
The announcement was made during an international summit in Kyiv commemorating the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where Sánchez reaffirmed Spain’s support for the war-torn country.
A CITY ALREADY SUPPORTING ITS UKRAINIAN COMMUNITY
Torrevieja, home to Spain’s largest Ukrainian expatriate community, already houses a Reception, Assistance, and Referral Centre for Displaced Ukrainians (Creade), one of four such centres set up across the country by the Ministry of Migration.
Additionally, a Ukrainian community centre, managed by the Association of Ukrainians of Torrevieja, has been operating for years with only municipal support, offering services such as educational assistance, health card registration, and immigration advice.
The Partido Popular-led municipal government has criticised the central government for making yet another major announcement without consulting local authorities, stating that it should have been informed before the decision was made public in Kyiv.
“Once again, the Spanish Government makes an announcement that directly impacts our city without first informing the local administration,” the City Council said in an official statement.
CONCERNS OVER REDUNDANCY AND LACK OF CLEAR PLANNING
Torrevieja officials pointed out that no clear explanation has been given regarding how the new ‘House of Ukraine’ will differ from existing support structures or whether it will overlap with current initiatives.
“Anything that helps and improves our existing support system is welcome,” the statement continued. “However, it is a shame that such an announcement lacks details on what specific needs this new centre aims to address.”
For now, the City Council is waiting for further clarification from the Spanish Government before making a formal assessment of the initiative.
