Call for action: Analyzing the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine

Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, and this invasion has caused many humanitarian crises. In Ukraine, approximately 14.6 million, or 40% of the population, need urgent help. The war’s intensity was severe and took the lives of many civilians. Approximately 10,000 civilians were killed and more than 18,500 injured. Furthermore, many people in ‌Ukraine are compelled to flee to other nations. And 3.6 million are displaced within Ukraine itself. 

Due to this war, ‌Ukraine’s infrastructure was damaged totally. The energy system of the nation was destroyed. Additionally, the country faced 12 major strikes on Ukraine’s energy facilities. These strikes leave many people unable to survive without major necessities and water. The situation becomes more complex in the winter months, making it hard for the nation to survive for longer periods. 

Over time, the situation in Ukraine has become devastating, the increasing numbers highlighting the huge loss of life. Many people were displaced from their original places. To bring the situation under control, it is important to help the people who live in Ukraine.

Recently the Russia attacked on the Ukraine power plant. This attack forced them to lessen the generation of electricity and many people survived without power. Furthermore, the safety of the region is under threat due to attacks on the substations. These substations supply electricity to the various plants. Nuclear plants need constant power supply to execute safely but these attacks increase the risks of accidents. 

To address these crises, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors issued a resolution last week. It highlights the serious threats due to these attacks and calls for instant action to save the nuclear power of the nation. 

However, according to Russia, which is the UNSC’s permanent member, shutting down the affected power stations is the only solution to the problem. Strangely, the nation that caused the attacks is now proposing suggestions. This increased doubts about the true intentions of Russia. It highlights the complexity of finding a long-term solution to secure the lives of people living in Ukraine. 

Russia’s actions are disregarding the humanitarian implications of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which is seriously harming civilians. Russia must cease its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and adhere to the IAEA’s “Seven Pillars for Nuclear Safety and Security” to contribute to the restoration of stability. Large-scale displacement has resulted from Russian operations in eastern Ukraine, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like the elderly, those with impairments, and those who are unable to move around easily. Many of these individuals live in continual terror while hiding in basements without access to essential services. 

As Russia prevents assistance groups from entering the seized territories, the humanitarian situation is getting worse. This problem requires an immediate response. To guarantee that humanitarian aid reaches those in need and that Russia ceases its destructive activities against civilians, the UN Security Council must intervene and demand accountability and action. It has become more difficult to deliver vital humanitarian assistance in the last two months due to a sharp rise in security incidents that impact aid distribution. By providing $126 million in humanitarian help this year, the UK has increased its efforts and now contributes more than $576 million in total. 

The UK has also committed approximately $467 million in grants and loans to Ukraine’s energy sector and has contributed more than $80 million to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund since the invasion began. Additionally, the UK is still committed to providing air defense systems, which are essential for defending Ukraine’s infrastructure against Russian assaults. The UK concludes by urging Russia to respect its responsibilities under the UN Charter by removing its forces from Ukraine and putting an end to the conflict. This would be a crucial step in achieving regional peace and security.