Since the start of the war in February 2022 “more than 12,000 people have died and almost 40% of the population is in need of humanitarian aid, including 3.6 million internally displaced people”
November 15, 2024 . Updated at 9.53pm
Ukraine faces its third and harshest winter since the start of the war in February 2022 due to the destruction of much of its energy infrastructure. Even the UN, which issued this warning on Friday, fears this could happen new massive displacements inside and outside the country if the attacks continue. So far “more than 12 thousand people have died and almost 40% of the population needs humanitarian aid, including 3.6 million internally displaced people”, added Matthias Schmale, United Nations representative in the country, during a press conference in Geneva .
In his speech he counted “more than 2,000 attacks against health facilities and two million homes damaged” and recalled that ”systematic operations against energy infrastructures could represent an additional risk in winter, especially for already vulnerable people, in the event of electricity interruptions”. a few days with temperatures below zero.” 65% of these resources were affected during the war.
“Deliberately attacking energy infrastructure that civilians depend on is a violation of international law,” Schmale said. The UN is particularly concerned about people living in high-rise buildings in large Ukrainian cities because it is not easy to supply them with fuel.
For this reason, as he explained, the local authorities are preparing “invincibility points”, where Ukrainians will be able to go “shelter, drink something hot, take a shower, have some tea and stay safe in case of a Russian attack”.
The United Nations representative in Ukraine urged the international community to give more support to the country and expressed confidence that the United States will continue to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine once President-elect Donald Trump arrives at the White House in January .
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– What are the primary humanitarian challenges currently facing Ukraine as winter approaches?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Matthias Schmale, UN Representative in Ukraine
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good evening, Matthias, and thank you for joining us today. As we approach what appears to be Ukraine’s third winter during this ongoing conflict, can you give us an overview of the current humanitarian situation in the country?
Matthias Schmale (MS): Good evening, and thank you for having me. The situation in Ukraine is indeed dire. Since the war escalated in February 2022, over 12,000 lives have been lost, and nearly 40% of the population is now in need of humanitarian aid. This encompasses a staggering 3.6 million people who have been internally displaced, struggling to find safety and stability.
TNE: That’s an alarming statistic, Matthias. With the cold winter approaching, what challenges does this pose for the displaced populations and those who remain in conflict-affected areas?
MS: The winter is our third and most challenging yet due to the significant destruction of energy infrastructure across the country. As temperatures drop, many families are facing not only the threat of displacement but also the harsh realities of inadequate heating, access to food, and medical services. The ongoing attacks exacerbate these challenges and have led to concerns about massive new displacements, both internally and across borders.
TNE: In your view, how are these challenges impacting the mental health of the Ukrainian people, particularly considering the stress and trauma that comes with prolonged conflict?
MS: The psychological toll of this conflict is immense. With the constant fear of attacks and the loss of loved ones, many people are experiencing profound trauma. Children, in particular, are vulnerable, as they are witnessing and experiencing things no child should have to endure. The mental health crisis could become as significant as the physical humanitarian crisis if not addressed properly.
TNE: It sounds incredibly urgent. What efforts are currently being made by the UN and other organizations to assist those affected by these humanitarian challenges?
MS: We are actively working with local organizations to deliver essential aid, including food, medical supplies, and psychological support. However, the ongoing conflict makes it difficult to reach all those in need. Our priority is to ensure safe access to humanitarian assistance and to advocate for the protection of civilians and infrastructure, which are vital for any recovery efforts.
TNE: Returning to the situation you mentioned earlier regarding the internal displacement, can you share what the current living conditions are like for those who have been displaced?
MS: Unfortunately, many internally displaced persons (IDPs) are living in temporary shelters that are often overcrowded and lacking basic necessities. They may face difficulties accessing medical care, education for their children, and employment opportunities. The longer the conflict continues, the more these conditions deteriorate, highlighting the urgent need for international assistance and solidarity.
TNE: That paints a stark picture, Matthias. As the situation unfolds, what can the international community do to better support Ukraine and its people during these trying times?
MS: Solidarity and support from the international community are crucial. This can include financial contributions to humanitarian efforts, diplomatic pressure to protect civilians, and support for longer-term recovery efforts once the conflict ends. Most importantly, we need to amplify the voices of the Ukrainian people and ensure that their needs are prioritized in global discussions.
TNE: Thank you for this insightful conversation, Matthias. It is essential that we continue to shed light on these pressing humanitarian issues. We appreciate the work you and your team are doing amidst such challenging conditions.
MS: Thank you for providing a platform to discuss these critical issues. Our hope remains with the resilience of the Ukrainian people, and we must all do our part to support them in any way we can.