In a powerful joint appeal from Kyiv, Tom Fletcher, the UN’s emergency relief chief, and Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, have called on the international community to provide support for millions of civilians affected by the ongoing Russian attacks in Ukraine. The two UN officials emphasized the urgent need for sustained international engagement and assistance to help the people of Ukraine in their time of need.
Tom Fletcher, in his passionate plea, highlighted the incredible courage shown by the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity. He stressed the importance of responding with heart and solidarity to support those in need. Fletcher emphasized the need to remember and assist Ukrainians living in the occupied territories, whose needs are particularly extreme. He also called for creative and bold approaches to ensure that support reaches those who are most vulnerable and in need.
The appeals put forth by Fletcher and Grandi aim to provide critical assistance to approximately six million people within Ukraine, where the overall needs are estimated to be more than double that number. Additionally, the appeals seek to address the needs of over 6.8 million Ukrainian refugees currently residing abroad. An estimated $2.62 billion is earmarked for response teams operating within Ukraine, while the UNHCR has requested $690 million for 2025 and $1.2 billion for 2025-2026 to assist governments hosting refugees in 11 countries.
Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, emphasized that the ultimate goal is not to keep people as refugees indefinitely. Rather, the objective is to create conditions that will allow these individuals to safely return to Ukraine, which is both a necessity for the country and a desire expressed by the majority of the refugees. Grandi stressed the importance of supporting the Ukrainian people in rebuilding their lives and communities so that they can eventually return home.
During his sixth visit to Ukraine, Filippo Grandi drew attention to the devastating impact of daily bomb blasts on the frontline communities. He described the scenes of destruction and deprivation faced by those living in these areas, particularly during the harsh winter months. The lack of heating and the targeting of energy infrastructure by the Russian Federation have exacerbated the suffering of civilians, leading to dire living conditions for many.
Matthias Schmale, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine, highlighted the ongoing efforts of national NGO partners and the UN to deliver aid and evacuate vulnerable individuals from conflict-affected areas. He emphasized the challenges faced by those living near the frontline, particularly people with disabilities and older individuals who struggle to move to safety. Schmale underscored the importance of providing support to those who have chosen to remain in their homes despite the dangers they face.
The situation in Ukraine remains critical, with millions of people in need of urgent assistance and support. The appeals issued by Tom Fletcher and Filippo Grandi serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country and the pressing need for international solidarity and action. It is imperative that the global community comes together to provide the necessary resources and support to help the people of Ukraine rebuild their lives and communities in the aftermath of the conflict.
