Destruction in Kurakhovo, Ukraine. Photo from the archive Ukraine: Intense fighting in Donetsk region worsens humanitarian crisis Peace and security
The situation in Ukraine’s Donetsk region continues to escalate. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), from 13 to 16 December, intense fighting along the front line resulted in numerous civilian casualties and serious damage to civilian infrastructure. Local authorities report that over 1,200 people were forced to flee their homes during this period.
The situation is particularly dire in such towns as Pokrovsk, Kurakhovo and Chasov Yar, which are located just a few kilometers from the front line. Despite constant shelling, almost 12,000 residents remain in these towns. Just yesterday, December 15, about 650 people, including 24 children, were evacuated from areas of the Donetsk region threatened by hostilities.
The deteriorating situation in Pokrovsk led to the suspension of the local gas operator, which deprived about 11,000 consumers, including families and businesses, of access to gas. In addition, the water supply company stopped delivering drinking water to distribution points.
The critical situation is also observed in Kurakhovo, where about 400 people remain, and in Chasov Yar, where about 300 residents live. Due to active hostilities, the delivery of humanitarian aid to these cities is currently impossible.
According to humanitarian organizations, more than 315,000 people remain in the part of Donetsk Oblast controlled by Ukraine, despite the growing threats.
Even in such difficult conditions, humanitarian missions of the UN and its partners continue their work. Today, a humanitarian convoy was sent to Liman, located on the front line, delivering hygiene kits, medical supplies, and personal hygiene products to local residents. Since the beginning of 2024, humanitarian organizations have delivered critical aid, including winter kits, to almost 25,000 residents of frontline areas of Donetsk Oblast.