Matthias Schmale during his visit to Dnipro. Ukraine: As winter approaches, aid needs increase Peace and Security
As the 1,000th day of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine approaches, the UN recalls the loss of civilian lives, the destruction of energy infrastructure, and the terror that drones have brought to local communities.
Speaking in Geneva, the UN coordinator in the country, Matthias Schmale, described the suffering that Ukrainians are enduring: “As we approach not only winter but also the sad milestone of 1,000 days since the full-scale invasion by the Russian Federation in 2022, our thoughts are of course with the more than 12,000 people killed… To date, civilian infrastructure has been destroyed, with more than 2,000 attacks on health facilities and two million homes damaged.”
Nearly 40 percent of the people in the country are in need of humanitarian aid, and one of the most pressing issues is the “systematic attacks” on energy infrastructure, which could leave the population without electricity, heating and running water during the cold season.
Life without heating
“According to our data, 65 percent of Ukraine’s energy capacity has been destroyed by now,” Shmale said. Where possible, UN humanitarian agencies and partners are distributing fuel and warm clothing. The situation is particularly difficult for many residents of apartment buildings. “Obviously, you can’t deliver a ton of solid fuel to a high-rise building,” Shmale explained. Collective shelters, where residents of cities and towns can get hot food and drinks and take a shower, are helping, he said. However, according to Shmale, “this is not enough.”
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One of the biggest threats, according to the UN representative, is the possibility of new strikes by Russian troops on energy facilities amid worsening weather conditions.
Threat of mass displacement
“This could be a tipping point that will lead to further massive displacement of people both within and across borders,” warned Schmale. “It is important not only to find technical solutions, but also to call on the international community to contribute to ending this war.”
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the UN, together with national and international non-governmental organizations and volunteers, has provided assistance to 7.2 million people in Ukraine. This was made possible thanks to $1.8 billion provided by donors.
The UN and its partners need an additional $500 million to prepare for winter and provide assistance during the winter months. These funds will help meet the emergency needs of 1.8 million people, including the supply of solid fuel, maintaining the smooth operation of water systems, and financial assistance. The situation on the front lines remains dangerous for both the local population and humanitarian workers, nine of whom have been killed in the line of duty this year.
Drone Attacks
“Many people have told me during my visits that civilians, infrastructure and civil society organizations are increasingly being targeted by drone attacks. Drone attacks are horrific, I don’t need to describe it to you,” Schmale said. “Part of it is psychological terror, because you never know whether they will strike or just watch.”