A Ukrainian refugee wins 500,000 euros with the Belgian National Lottery

The spokesman for the National Lottery met him and said he intended “to do something for his compatriots and for the reconstruction of his country”.

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Games of chance on sale in Belgium on May 19, 2023. (LEYLA VIDAL / MAXPPP)

He bought a scratch ticket for 5 euros at a gas station on May 16. A Ukrainian refugee has won 500,000 euros at the National Lottery in Brussels. The young man, who fled the war, has been living in the Brussels region for a year. Like all winners of amounts over 100,000 euros, he was invited to the headquarters of the National Lottery in Brussels so that his winnings could be transferred to him. The National Lottery, which does not disclose the data of its players, clarified on Monday June 12 that he was between 18 and 24 years old.

“His feelings were very mixed,” explained Joke Vermoere, spokesperson for the National Lottery, quoted in a press release. “His mind was clearly in Ukraine and in this time it is difficult to rejoice with everything that is happening in his country. But he was at the same time of course also very happy with his win and, above all, full of joy. ‘hope”.

“With the money he has won, he intends above all to do something for his compatriots and for the reconstruction of his country. But he first wants to organize a party in Belgium for the family and friends who took care of him and helped him integrate”, added the spokesperson. The young man found a job in Belgium, but “he would of course prefer to return to Ukraine as soon as possible, as soon as the war is over”added Joke Vermoere.


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