Article by Viory
On February 28, while we were walking in Doha, we heard a warning on our mobile phones telling us that we needed to take shelter. A few minutes later, there were explosions. We saw missiles attacking in the sky, after which we immediately got on a bus and went to the ship. Since then, we have been stranded on our ship, the Celestial Journey, in the port of Doha.”
Valeria, Tourist (Russian): “From the ship, we watched the missile attack. There were so many of them! They were being blown up and shot down above our heads. It was the most terrifying day.”
“After that, we occasionally saw missiles being shot down, though not as many as on February 28.”
“We were allowed to stay on the ship until March 7. The atmosphere on board is calm, we are fed well, and there are no restrictions. We could have been offered water and porridge, and we would have been happy with that. But we are constantly supported, they play classical music for us, hold concerts, and the staff are smiling.”
“On March 4, we were permitted to leave the port and explore the city of Doha, as many passengers needed to purchase medicine.”
“Those on board the cruise ship have created a group on Telegram for Russian citizens. We have an activist who is in contact with our embassy representative. We have been promised that after March 7, we will be provided with hotels in Doha and three meals a day. We are being asked to remain calm, that everything will be fine. When the skies open up, we will fly home.”
“They are not abandoning us. Sheikhs from Qatar came on board and brought gifts for the children, mini boxes of sweets. I think it was a gesture that said, “Guys, don’t worry, we won’t abandon you, we know about you.” In other words, I believe that the governments of Qatar and the Russian Federation will support us, won’t abandon us, and will get us out of here.”
“It is now 12:00 p.m. on March 5. There have just been more explosions above our heads; everyone can see them. People are staying calm and hoping for the best.”
Article by Viory
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