UNHCR reports $1 million in aid lost after Russian strike on Dnipro warehouse

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has voiced grave concern following the destruction of a vital warehouse in Dnipro, Ukraine, by a Russian missile strike. The incident resulted in the loss of approximately $1 million worth of critical humanitarian aid, including sleeping mats and hygiene kits, which were destined for civilians displaced and affected by the ongoing conflict.

Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth, UNHCR's representative in Kyiv, highlighted the devastating impact of such attacks, emphasizing that the loss deprives vulnerable populations of essential assistance at a time when needs are immense and evacuations from frontline areas continue. This destruction is not an isolated event, according to UNHCR, which points to a disturbing trend of targeting humanitarian convoys. Just last week, two clearly marked UN convoys carrying humanitarian workers were struck by drones, underscoring the perilous conditions under which aid is delivered.

From our perspective, these attacks represent a flagrant disregard for international humanitarian law and the principles of neutrality and impartiality that guide our operations. The deliberate targeting of facilities and convoys dedicated to alleviating human suffering is unacceptable and exacerbates an already dire situation for millions of Ukrainians. We urge all parties to respect the sanctity of humanitarian aid and ensure the safe passage of personnel and supplies.

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The destruction deprives the population of basic assistance, while needs remain significant and forced displacement and evacuations continue from areas near the front lines.