14 December 2025, 12:40

Latvian refugee family shares what they love about Belarus

Screengrab/BelTA

MINSK, 14 December (BelTA) – In The Honest Story project on BelTA’s YouTube channel Roman and Olga Samul, a refugee couple from Latvia, shared what they particularly like about Belarus.

After receiving refugee status, the Samuls bought a house in a village and are now settling into their new life. Reflecting on their impressions, Roman Samul noted that their experience mirrors that of others who have moved to the “blue-eyed country.”

“I keep in touch with many people who have relocated here, and the first thing they notice is the variety and abundance of products in the stores. And this is not propaganda. We were told there was nothing here. Compare it to Latvia, where they have six types of salami simply spread out in rows. It may seem like a lot, but in reality, there is little choice. Here in Belarus, I am sometimes amazed and wonder, how do they sell it all? Are they really selling everything?”

According to Roman Samul, the cleanliness throughout Belarus is also striking. “Many people who move here notice this as well,” he remarked. “In contrast to Latvia, where graffiti is everywhere and municipal services struggle because people have left for Germany or other countries, leaving cities untended. Yes, some houses outside cities and private areas are beautiful because their owners maintain them. But elsewhere, it is frankly disheartening.”

The couple also noted the openness and kindness of Belarusian people. “We have even made friends here, two married couples who helped us tremendously,” Roman explained. “After buying the house, for instance, I could not have managed alone. We installed many utilities like sewerage, water, and electricity. They helped us at every stage, accomplishing what seemed impossible, affordably and in a very short time.”

“People are very responsive,” Roman added. “They saw we needed assistance and helped us without expecting payment.”

His wife Olga continued: “They inspired us and kept our spirits high. When you think how much must be done here, it feels overwhelming. But thanks to them, we persevered.”

The couple also shared how they turned to their YouTube channel’s subscribers for help covering medical costs for their dog, who had lost the use of his legs. “And once again, who helped us?” said Roman Samul. “Belarusians helped us. Had we made the same appeal in Latvia, I doubt anyone would have donated. There are kind people there, but we would not have raised the full amount. Here, we did.”