UNFPA strongly condemns today’s attack on a United Nations humanitarian convoy in the Kherson region of Ukraine. The convoy, clearly marked and operating under the coordination of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), was delivering essential aid to residents on the front lines in the Bilozerka area of Kherson, when it came under drone and artillery fire.
One UN vehicle was destroyed and another severely damaged. Two others continued their mission. Fortunately, no one was injured. UNFPA had nearly 800 hygiene kits onboard containing essential hygiene and personal items for women, girls and older people. An assessment of the impact is underway.
Any attack on humanitarian assistance is a clear violation of international humanitarian law and cannot be accepted.
The Kherson region continues to face relentless shelling and insecurity, with entire communities cut off from markets, healthcare, and other essential services. The area has a high proportion of older people or individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities, many of whom are unable to relocate and who rely on humanitarian assistance for survival. Frequent blackouts and the loss of electricity, heating, and water systems further compound their vulnerability.
The Bilozerka area has suffered extensive destruction, with nearly every village affected and much of the residential infrastructure damaged. Almost a quarter of its current residents are internally displaced. Continued humanitarian assistance is essential to ensure access to basic services for this vulnerable population.
Humanitarian aid is not a target. UNFPA reiterates the urgent need to protect civilians and ensure safe, unimpeded access for humanitarian workers in accordance with international humanitarian law.
