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Press Release: Escalating Crisis in Ukraine and a Harsh Winter ahead Deepen Challenges for Vulnerable Communities

Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is responding urgently to the escalating conflict in Ukraine, which is intensifying an already severe humanitarian crisis. As winter approaches, millions of people, particularly in frontline communities, face increasingly harsh conditions due to ongoing violence and severe weather.

In recent weeks, a surge in shelling and airstrikes has caused significant casualties and damage to critical infrastructure, including homes, schools, and health facilities. The UN reports that July 2024 saw the highest civilian death toll since October 2022, with at least 219 civilians killed and 1,018 wounded in Ukraine. These attacks are also disrupting essential services such as electricity and water, crucial as winter sets in. Over 3 million people in frontline areas urgently need humanitarian assistance, and any further escalation could lead to additional displacement and hardship.

The upcoming winter season is expected to be particularly challenging for Ukrainians already struggling with power shortages and inadequate shelter. DRC is prioritizing the needs of vulnerable groups, including those in collective sites, by providing heating equipment, insulation materials, and other essential supplies to help them endure the cold months ahead.

We urge the international community to remain focused on Ukraine and ensure that necessary resources are available to meet the urgent needs of millions.

Charlotte Slente, Secretary General, DRC Danish Refugee Council

Secretary General is in Ukraine

DRC emphasizes the critical need for sustained international funding to address the crisis in Ukraine. The 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan requires $3.11 billion to support 8.5 million people, making continued financial backing essential.

"The humanitarian situation in Ukraine is increasingly dire," said DRC Secretary General Charlotte Slente, DRC’s Secretary General, who will be visiting Kyiv, Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts between 16th and 23rd of August.

"As winter approaches, we must continue to support those most affected by the conflict. We urge the international community to remain focused on Ukraine and ensure that necessary resources are available to meet the urgent needs of millions."

DRC remains steadfast in its commitment to helping the people of Ukraine endure the winter and advocating for ongoing international support to address the escalating humanitarian crisis.

DRC in Ukraine

DRC Danish Refugee Council works across Ukraine and has nearly 800 employees in 10 offices across the country from west to east, providing daily support in areas just a few kilometers away from the front line.

Secretary General Charlotte Slente will visit Kyiv, Kharkivska and Donetska between 16 and 23 August and is available for commentary and interviews.

For more information, please contact

Copenhagen: Natasha Guman, [email protected], +45 26204744
Kyiv: Olha Sydorova, [email protected], +38 095 0 300 350
Europe: Bahia Zrikem, [email protected], +32 488 2 834 65