Kherson and other frontline regions of Ukraine showcase both the resilience of the people and the extensive destruction caused by the war. Humanitarian aid and international support remain vital for preserving lives, rebuilding infrastructure, and assisting the population.
This was stated by Matthias Schmale, the UN Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine.
Schmale noted that Kherson was the first frontline city he visited when he started his work in Ukraine a year ago. Since then, the security situation has worsened, with missile strikes and drone attacks becoming more frequent.
“For me, Kherson represents both resilience and a stark example of ongoing destruction,” he remarked.
Schmale informed that last week he accompanied a humanitarian convoy that delivered medical supplies, hygiene kits, and water to Kherson Oblast, and visited a transit center where around 2,140 people have stopped in the last two weeks. He also pointed out that medical facilities, even those underground, are providing services to pregnant women and psychological support to the affected.
“Unfortunately, Kherson is not an exception, and the need for humanitarian actions remains as urgent as ever. Continuous strikes by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation are causing destruction to residential buildings, schools, and hospitals,” the UN Coordinator in Ukraine stated.
He assured that the UN will continue to provide humanitarian support that saves many lives, but its effectiveness depends on international assistance. At the same time, Schmale noted that humanitarian resources are dwindling, and without them, evacuation teams may halt operations, hospitals will not be able to provide services, and families will be left without heating and water.
“As winter approaches, humanitarian needs will increase further, and timely support will be critically necessary, especially in frontline areas... Until the sounds of air alarms cease, we must stand together and support the people of this country - in Kherson, Sumy, and across the nation,” Schmale urged.
