The head of the UN refugee agency, Filippo Grandi, called Thursday for protection for the population and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, a few hours after the start of the Russian invasion.
“We have already seen information that speaks of victims and people who begin to flee their homes for safety,” wrote the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
“Civilian lives and civilian infrastructure must be protected and preserved at all times, in accordance with international humanitarian law,” he added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, with aerial bombardments and the entry of ground forces at various points.
Hours later, the Ukrainian authorities announced a first balance, with about fifty dead (of which, a dozen civilians).
Grandi stressed that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), present in Ukraine, is prepared to provide humanitarian assistance “wherever it is necessary and possible.”
In addition, he demanded that “the security and access of humanitarian efforts be guaranteed.”
The High Commissioner also called on Ukraine’s neighboring countries to keep their borders open to accommodate potential refugees.
“We are ready to support all response work in the face of this situation of forced displacement. Consequently, we have strengthened our operations and capabilities in Ukraine and in neighboring countries,” Grandi said.
“We are strongly committed to supporting the affected population in Ukraine and in the countries of the region,” he explained.
