Photos: Evacuees flee Russian aggression, leaving cities and loved ones behind

By Grace Widyatmadja,

Grace Widyatmadja, Marco Storel

Published March 13, 2022 at 8:02 AM EDT

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<strong>March 12:</strong> Families board buses to the border of Poland in Lviv, Ukraine. — **March 12:** Families board buses to the border of Poland in Lviv, Ukraine.

Ukrainians could already travel to the EU without a visa and stay 90 days. Now, under the EU's "temporary protection directive," any Ukrainian national who fled as a result of the invasion, plus their partners and children of any nationality, may receive permission to stay in any EU country for one year.

If Ukraine remains dangerous, that status can be extended, ultimately up to three years.

EU governments are expected at a minimum to help Ukrainians find housing and to allow them to work, go to school, receive social welfare benefits and routine medical care.

They may apply for asylum at any time. And should Ukraine become safe again, EU countries are expected to help them return if they wish.

Here's a look into the last few days on the ground.