The people of Ukraine are facing a desperately uncertain time with the situation deteriorating quickly. I am writing to let you know that UNHCR is working with the authorities, UN and other partners in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries to scale up assistance as needed and to respond to any situation of forced displacement.
UNHCR estimates that more than 100,000 people must have already moved out of their homes in Ukraine seeking safety in other parts of the country.
Thousands more have already crossed into neighbouring countries, with many more expected to follow.
This is in addition to the 1.5 million people who have been reported as internally displaced by Ukraine, following the start of conflict in eastern Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea in 2014.
Ukraine is one of the most populous nations in Europe, with 44 million people. It’s critical we provide the support needed to all affected populations in Ukraine and countries in the region.
The UN Refugee High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi has stated: “we have already seen reports of casualties and people starting to flee their homes to seek safety… The humanitarian consequences on civilian populations will be devastating. There are no winners in war but countless lives will be torn apart.”
