Tue Nov 19 17:17:27 UTC 2024: ## Ukraine Faces Grim Third Winter Amidst Ongoing War: Civilians Bear Brunt of Attacks

**Kyiv, Ukraine** – As Ukraine approaches the 1,000-day mark of Russia’s full-scale invasion, civilians are facing a deepening humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by relentless attacks and the looming winter. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that recent strikes on energy infrastructure have crippled 65% of Ukraine’s energy generation capacity, leaving millions without electricity, heating, and water.

UN Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees, Kelly Clements, recently visited Ukraine and witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the conflict. “The constant attacks on critical infrastructure and civilian sites, coupled with frequent air raid warnings, are taking a tremendous toll on the physical and mental health of Ukrainians,” Clements stated. Since August alone, approximately 170,000 people have fled their homes in eastern Ukraine, adding to the nearly four million internally displaced and the 6.7 million who have sought refuge abroad. This includes 400,000 new refugees who have fled to other European countries since the start of 2024.

In Kharkiv, one of the hardest-hit regions, Clements observed the stark reality of the conflict, including explosions during her visit to a UNHCR-supported center. She met Svitlana, a 65-year-old whose apartment was destroyed, highlighting the resilience of the Ukrainian people despite the pervasive trauma.

The approaching winter presents further challenges. Children in Kharkiv are studying in underground metro stations, lacking natural light and playgrounds due to the ongoing air raids. While the Ukrainian government is leading impressive recovery efforts, the UNHCR’s $1 billion appeal for 2024 is only half-funded. Clements urged continued international support, warning that “now is not the time for partners to turn away.” The situation underscores the urgent need for continued humanitarian aid as Ukraine enters its third winter of war. Separately, the UN has also issued warnings about the dangers faced by migrants in the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.

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