Winter Threats Loom as Energy Attacks May Cause New Displacements in Ukraine

The U.N. warns that further attacks on Ukraine's energy system may drive another wave of mass displacement as winter nears. With significant parts of Ukraine's energy infrastructure offline, the country relies on nuclear power. Aid efforts face funding shortages despite existing humanitarian needs.

Concerns are mounting as a senior U.N. official warned on Friday that any additional Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy system could prompt more mass displacement with winter approaching. Civilians are increasingly vulnerable, according to U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator Matthias Schmale, due to the ongoing energy-focused strikes and donor fatigue.

The risk of further displacement is high, adding to the 3.6 million people already displaced within Ukraine, alongside over 6 million who have fled abroad since the conflict began in February 2022. Currently, around 65% of Ukraine's energy production remains offline due to Russian strikes, worsening the situation compared to previous years.

Efforts to mitigate the crisis include Ukraine's reliance on nuclear power plants and the United Nations' Humanitarian Winter Response Plan, providing fuel and essentials. Despite this, funding shortages hinder humanitarian objectives, with only $1.8 billion received of the $3.1 billion sought, underscoring the need for ongoing support as the conflict persists.

(With inputs from agencies.)