Ukrainian refugees fleeing their country have received a hero's welcome – in Madrid. Exhausted after three weeks of conflict and a 3,000-kilometer trip from the Polish border, they have now, finally, found relief.

They have been brought to the Spanish capital by 30 Madrid taxi drivers, who were largely self-funded. It was yet another incredible act of kindness at a time of great uncertainty in Europe.

"They were just so grateful, really grateful for what we did for them," driver Carlos Gonzalez told CGTN Europe. "I was driving three people all aged over 70 and they were just so charming with all of us." 

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"They really appreciated what we did. At first, they were a little nervous, but as soon as they realized this was actually for real and we were driving them to Spain – they were very happy."

Some of those who made the journey have family members living in Spain, others will be allocated homes or temporary shelter. Non-governmental organizations like Messengers of Peace, run entirely by volunteers, will help provide food and accommodation, while medical and psychological services will also be offered to those in need.

In total, the caravan of taxis has just made a 6000-kilometer round trip – from Madrid to the Polish border and back to Madrid. On their outward journey they brought essential humanitarian aid; on their return, they brought back Ukrainian refugees – many of them exhausted, all of them relieved.

Fears for family back home

CGTN Europe spoke to a mother of two who worked as a doctor. She did not want to give her name for fear of reprisals on her husband, who is back in Ukraine fighting in one of the worst-hit areas of the country.

"We had to leave because of the bombs. We are from Kharkiv and it was completely destroyed – we were lucky to escape," she said. "I don't know how to thank the love and support from everyone here. It almost makes you want to forget what just happened."

More than three million Ukrainians have fled the country, and the people who have arrived in Spain are the lucky ones. When the euphoria and relief of their escape subsides, thoughts will inevitably return to the safety of those left behind.