More than 10 million citizens fled Ukraine since start of war, says UN

More than 10 million Ukrainians, including more than half of the country’s children, have fled their homes since the war began last month, according to a UN Humanitarian Affairs delegate speaking to the UN Security Council on Tuesday.

According to UN Humanitarian Affairs Deputy Emergency Coordinator Joyce Msuya, 6.5 million are internally displaced and 3.9 million have crossed borders to neighbouring countries.

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Msuya stated that humanitarian aid is increasing on a daily basis, and that more than 1,230 UN employees are now in the country working with more than 100 humanitarian groups across Ukraine.

“Ukraine is a humanitarian paradox: Side by side with extreme violence we see extreme kindness, profound solidarity and the gentlest of care,” Msuya explained the humanitarian situation on the ground.

She stated that the first UN convoy arrived in Sumy on March 18, with 130 tonnes of medical supplies, water, ready-to-eat meals, and canned food for 35,000 people. On Monday, a second UN convoy arrived in Kharkiv, delivering food and other crucial humanitarian supplies to the Ukraine Red Cross association.

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“Countrywide, more than 180 metric tons of medical supplies have been delivered, and more than 470 metric tons are on the way,” Msuya said. “Where we can, we buy supplies from the local market, and work alongside local efforts.”

Msuya stated that in order to provide greater humanitarian assistance, “we need detailed, realistic agreements on humanitarian ceasefires and pauses to allow aid in, and people out.” “The situation in Ukraine is a breeding ground for human traffickers and predators taking advantage of the opportunity provided by the instability fueled by the war,” she continued.

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“Humanitarian organizations are worried about the risk of trafficking, as well as sexual violence, exploitation and abuse in Ukraine and the region,” Msuya said. “Predators are luring single parents on the road with promises of transport and accommodation.”

According to the UN envoy, the organisation is increasing protection assistance for Ukrainians fleeing the nation not only at the border but also within the country, “providing information available on safe options and routes, access to helplines and safe shelter.”