Russian and Ukrainian tourists stranded on Thai islands received help amid the conflict in their home countries.

The tourists reportedly had difficulties paying for food and accommodation without cash as their credit cards were declined and 'stopped working.'

Local officials and members of the Russian Federation in Surat Thani province, where there was a high number of tourists from the countries, opened an assistance centre to address them.

The centre will cover basic needs while they are stranded such as food, accommodation, and medical care.

Koh Samui Sheriff Chayaphon Inthasupha said: 'Koh Samui local authorities have established a coordination and assistance centre for Russian and Ukrainian tourists. Some have already contacted us.

'The centre will be taking care of housing, food, and medical care. Now, tourists whose visas have expired can apply for a visa extension with the Surat Thani Immigration Office for 60 days.'

More than 200 tourists have already reached out to the assistance centre desk from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao islands in the province.

Russian tourists have already started visiting the office of the Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation located inside the W Koh Samui Hotel to request assistance.

The International School of Tourism in Suratthani Rajabhat University prepared more than 30 rooms to accommodate tourists from both countries who were having problems with accommodation.

Thai International Hospital is also providing medical assistance by allowing Russian and Ukrainian tourists to treat their ailments on credit and repay once the situation in both countries improved.

Ukrainian and Russian tourists in need can contact the helpline that is open for 24 hours.

Director of Thai International Hospital Danaiwat Phromsawat said: 'The hospital is part of the Koh Samui community. We want to be involved in humanitarian work so we are ready to take care of Russian and Ukrainian tourists who are in the area of ​​Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao who are facing financial problems. Tourists have been screened by the consulate before the treatment.'

The Russian government started an invasion of neighbouring country Ukraine on Fenruary, which it called a 'special military operation,' and was deemed the largest military conflict in Europe since World War II.