The United Nations is concerned about a slowdown in humanitarian aid to Ukraine
The humanitarian situation in Ukraine remains a “very serious” issue and international aid is at risk of being cut, warned United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, in an interview with the agency. German press DPA, reproduced by German media.
According to him, Ukrainian society was very strong and united after the Russian attack, but after two years of hostilities, “the tension is palpable.” “These divisions are becoming visible, and of course there is a risk that they will widen as international support in all its forms decreases,” says Grandi.
He added that the work of UNHCR and other organizations in 2022 and 2023 was well funded, but this year, 2024, was also focused on other crises such as the war in Gaza. In particular, the three main donors – Germany, the USA and the European Union – have not yet determined the amount of their aid to Ukraine.
The fundraising appeal to support the Ukrainian population living in the country amounts to $3.1 billion in 2024, up from $3.9 billion last year – 67% of which has been funded. In addition to that $3.1 billion, there will be $1.1 billion in aid funds to be raised for Ukrainian refugees and their host communities – to help 2.3 million people. Around 6.3 million people have fled Ukraine and are living on the run, mainly in Europe. According to the United Nations, 14.6 million people will need humanitarian assistance in the country this year, or 40% of the population, with 8.5 million to be reached as a priority.