In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which has displaced millions, Costa Cruises, the Italian subsidiary of Carnival Corp., is offering housing to refugees on its Costa Magica ship.
“We have offered one of our ships to the Italian Government to be integrated into the National Civil Protection’s plans as a potential temporary hub for Ukrainian refugees in case of growing numbers of arrivals in Italy in the coming weeks,” Costa said in a statement shared recently by Carnival Corp. spokesperson Roger Frizzell.
The cruise line said it was watching the events in Ukraine with concern.
“Our thoughts are with the affected people, including the families of our many Ukrainian employees who are understandably concerned for their loved ones.”
Costa also noted that it has already donated and sent medical supplies and medicine to support Ukrainians.
Costa Cruises is not the first company under the Carnival Corp. brand to take action in supporting Ukraine.
According to USA Today, the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation said it was pledging $USD3 million ($AUD4 million) to organisations providing aid to Ukrainian refugees.
The foundation plans to donate $USD1 million to World Central Kitchen, UNICEF USA, and Direct Relief in support.
On top of this the brand’s flagship line, Carnival Cruise Line, made a $50,000 donation to World Central Kitchen and AIDA Cruises, the company’s German brand, provided medicine as well.
The company said in its release that additional support efforts are “underway” by its various brands.
“We stand for peace and our hearts go out to everyone whose lives have been upended by the invasion of Ukraine,” Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corp., said.
“We have crew members from 145 countries and we sail with guests from nations around the globe, so we feel deeply the human impact of this humanitarian crisis and we join many others in supporting relief efforts.”
