More than 7 million people have fled across borders to seek safety since Russia deployed its military into neighboring Ukraine on February 24. Bombs and shelling have continued, deliberately targeting homes and civilian infrastructure in what could become the worst humanitarian crisis Europe has seen in decades. Ukrainian territorial gains in mid-September have exposed large-scale damages and an extreme need for humanitarian support in regions formerly held by Russian forces.

Russia has since ordered its first mobilization of 300,000 reservist troops since World War II. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) calls for an immediate ceasefire, warning that further escalation of the conflict will drive up humanitarian needs and displace even more people from their homes.

In order to preserve human life and dignity in Ukraine, the violence must end. World leaders must also ensure that international humanitarian law is upheld and that humanitarian actors are protected and maintain access to help those in need.  Read more at ICRC