UN humanitarian coordinator Matthias Schmel said in Geneva that the Russian Federation launched a full-scale offensive in the winter of 2022, marking the 1,000th day.
“We are thinking of 12 thousand people who lost their lives.” So far, more than 2,000 attacks have caused extensive damage to civilian facilities and health facilities, and more than 2 million homes have been damaged.
Four out of every 10 people in Ukraine need humanitarian assistance. People living in high-rise buildings face a serious challenge to survive the freezing cold, as energy installations have been systematically attacked.
Matthias Schmel said 65 percent of Ukraine’s energy production capacity has been destroyed so far.
In this situation, solid fuels such as wood, coal and heating cloth have been distributed to the poor by UN aid teams and partner agencies, but the situation is alarming for people living in buildings.
According to the UN official, it is not possible to supply solid fuel on a large scale in high-rise buildings. Collective shelters in towns and cities are providing people with hot meals, makeshift bathrooms and hot drinks, but it is not enough.
Threat of mass displacement
Matthias Schmel warns that if the Russian military targets energy installations again during the winter season, it will lead to displacement within the country and to other countries.
“So, it’s not just about technical solutions, it’s also about calling on the international community to do its part to stop this war.”
The United Nations, as well as national and international organizations, have so far provided at least one form of assistance to 7.2 million people in Ukraine, made possible by a $1.8 billion humanitarian aid fund.
By March next year, $500 million has been requested to meet the urgent needs of 1.8 million people, maintain solid fuel supplies and water supply systems.
But the situation is extremely dangerous for communities and aid workers on the front lines. This year, 9 relief workers sacrificed their lives while performing their duties. Humanitarian institutions have also been affected by the violence.