Ukraine
As Ukraine continues to grapple with the devastating impacts of war, nearly thirteen million people depend on life-saving humanitarian assistance. The recent suspension of U.S. foreign aid poses a significant threat to these vulnerable populations, warns the International Rescue Committee (IRC). Having operated in Ukraine since the escalation of the conflict, the IRC emphasizes the urgent need for sustained support to save lives.
The impact of aid cuts
The IRC, which has been instrumental in providing aid to war-torn areas, recently experienced a substantial cut in U.S. government funding, jeopardizing numerous life-saving programs. These cuts could have dire human consequences - the IRC's initiatives, ranging from mobile medical support to child protection are now at risk. The organization has already invested over $1.5 million in critical medicines and supplies for frontline areas, but without restored funding, these essential health services and other vital assistance may be suspended.
Humanitarian efforts at risk
In December alone, the IRC provided nearly 3,000 medical consultations in the Dnipro and Kharkiv regions. However, aid suspensions now threaten critical healthcare services, including mobile health units and pharmacies, which serve thousands of people—many of them elderly or managing chronic illnesses. Mental health support for children and their families is also at risk.
A call for continued support
David Miliband, President and CEO of the IRC, underscores the moral and strategic imperative of supporting Ukraine's civilian population. "Beyond the statistics of aid cuts, there are real people being affected—and millions of lives at stake," Miliband states. He calls for unwavering solidarity, emphasizing that the humanitarian needs triggered by the war will outlast the conflict itself.
Liubov Fedorenko puts firewood, which she uses for heating and cooking, into the stove. The IRC provided financial assistance to the villagers for the winter period; the woman purchased firewood with these funds.
How is the IRC supporting people in Ukraine?
Since February 2022, the IRC has been working in the areas of Ukraine most affected by the war, especially in the east and southeast. They have provided over 100,000 medical consultations, given financial aid to nearly 130,000 people, and delivered essential supplies to more than 30,000 people. The IRC has also helped 60,000 women and girls and held 30,000 sessions to support children dealing with the trauma of war.
The people of Ukraine need help, and the world must continue to stand with them to ensure aid reaches those in need and work toward long-term peace and stability.
How can I support Ukraine?
Three years since the full-scale Russian invasion, and a decade into conflict, it is critical to continue supporting people affected by the war, both those within Ukraine and those who have fled to neighboring countries.
