Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna took part in an online UN briefing on the humanitarian response to the crisis caused by Russia’s armed aggression against Ukraine.
The Deputy Prime Minister thanked all countries and international organizations that promptly provided Ukraine with the necessary assistance, and noted that the Government has the most complete information on the humanitarian needs of Ukrainian regions.
"Comprehensive coordination with the Government on humanitarian aid is important to ensure that the necessary aid reaches the most needed regions. At the same time, we feel the need to increase such supplies. The volume and speed of delivery of humanitarian aid must meet the challenges facing Ukraine," Olha Stefanishyna stressed.
She dwelled on the importance for Ukraine of the EU's decision to open its borders to people fleeing the war.
"We are grateful to the European Union, which provided financial support and other tools to support victims," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
Olha Stefanishyna also noted the importance of the efforts of international organizations to facilitate negotiations with Russia on the establishment of humanitarian corridors, but stressed that the delivery of aid to the most critical areas is still blocked.
"Russia continues to violate the agreements reached. We call on the international community to increase pressure on Russia to implement its commitments as soon as possible. Today, more than 80 settlements need help, and some have actually been destroyed by Russian troops, " Olha Stefanishyna stressed.
She noted that the Government is working around the clock to establish a mechanism for reliable supply of food, medicine and basic necessities throughout the country.
"Russian troops are deliberately attacking civilians, dropping bombs on residential neighborhoods and social infrastructure. The worst situation remains in besieged Mariupol. Russian occupiers commit genocide of Ukrainians! ", the Deputy Prime Minister stated.
The official called on the international community to take steps to put pressure on Russia to implement the decision of the UN International Court of Justice in The Hague, according to which Russia must immediately stop hostilities in Ukraine.
"The life of Ukrainians is our unconditional priority, and we will do everything to help them survive. We appeal to UN agencies and international partners to strengthen support for Ukraine, to help us save the lives of our citizens, "said Olha Stefanishyna.
She also stressed that the consequences of Russia's war against Ukraine will have significant consequences for the whole world, in particular in the food sector, as Ukraine has supplied agricultural and food products to millions of people around the world and planned to increase these supplies.
"Russia's armed aggression could have catastrophic consequences for the world," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
During the online briefing, the participants identified priority areas for cooperation to effectively respond to the humanitarian crisis caused by Russia's military aggression against Ukraine.