Ukraine: The Human Toll of 1,000 Days of War

Odesa, Ukraine, November 19, 2024 - As Ukraine marks the sobering milestone of 1,000 days of war, recent days have brought waves of indiscriminate attacks that claimed dozens of lives and injured many innocent civilians. Just yesterday in Odesa, ten people were killed, and 55 others injured. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is providing aid to affected families, delivering emergency supplies and offering critical financial support.

With temperatures dropping to below freezing in the upcoming week, the destruction of residential buildings has left many without safe shelter. Targeted damage to critical heating infrastructure further threatens people's ability to survive the harsh season.

Scott Lea, IRC's Ukraine Country Director, said:

"The past few days have once again seen the immense human toll of this war as Ukraine marks 1,000 days of war. People's capacity to cope has been severely depleted-both physically and psychologically. Many families are left without savings to endure the cold season, unable to afford fuel or warm winter clothing.

"Intensified attacks on civilian infrastructure have made life increasingly difficult for millions of civilians, particularly in places already enduring the strain of prolonged hostilities. The attacks have damaged energy plants and electricity stations, forcing people to face daily blackouts which can last for hours. A harsh winter lies ahead and people may have a hard time heating their homes."