14,000 People Displaced by Conflicts in Kharkiv Region, Ukraine: WHO
The situation in Ukraine continues to escalate, particularly in the Kharkiv region, as conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensifies. According to Habicht, who attended the weekly press conference of the UN Geneva Office online, the health situation in Ukraine is a growing concern.
In the past two weeks, conflicts in Kharkiv have significantly increased, leading to the displacement of over 14 thousand people. Approximately 189 thousand people still reside within 25 kilometers of the Russian border, facing serious risks due to the ongoing conflicts. Habicht also highlighted the severe damage to residences and civilian infrastructure in the region, as well as power outages affecting people across Ukraine, including Kiev, due to attacks on critical energy facilities.
The recent missile attack in Kharkiv on May 19 resulted in the death of 11 people and injuries to many, with an average of 200 ambulances being damaged or destroyed annually since the Russia-Ukraine war began in February 2022. Habicht emphasized the need for preparations to ensure the Ukrainian healthcare system can operate effectively in the coming winter period.
In response to missile attacks launched by the Ukrainian army against the Russian city of Belgorod, Russia accused the Kiev administration of orchestrating a “barbaric missile attack” and claimed Western involvement in the attacks. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to establish a safe buffer zone in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine, stating that there are currently no intentions to capture Kharkiv.
As tensions continue to rise in Ukraine, it is crucial for international efforts to focus on de-escalating the situation and finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflicts in the region.
