**Ukrainian Lawmaker Corrects Statement on IDPs Returning to Occupied Territories**
A Ukrainian lawmaker has said that his earlier statement about 150,000 people who have returned to occupied territories was not based on real data. Maksym Tkachenko made this correction in an interview with Ukrinform.
Tkachenko said that his previous statement was “unfounded and emotional” and that he spoke incorrectly. He serves on a committee focused on human rights and the liberation of occupied territories.
**Why IDPs Travel to Occupied Territories**
Individuals who have been displaced from their homes, known as internally displaced persons (IDPs), are forced to travel to occupied territories for various reasons. However, Tkachenko said that it is not about hundreds or even tens of thousands returning. He explained that there can be no general verified statistics on this issue.
**The Problem of Mass Displacement in Ukraine**
Ukraine has around 3.7 million IDPs who were driven out of their homes due to Russian aggression and occupation. Many of them face difficulties securing housing and employment. The problem of mass displacement continues to grow as Russia’s ongoing advance in the east leads to more civilian evacuations.
**Russia Occupies Around 20% of Ukrainian Territory**
Russia now occupies around 20% of Ukrainian territory. This has caused a significant humanitarian crisis, with many people affected by the conflict struggling to find shelter and employment.