The World Health Organization (WHO) warned on Monday that winter will threaten the lives of millions of Ukrainians, following a series of devastating Russian attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure.
“This winter will endanger the lives of millions of people in Ukraine,” Hans Kluge, WHO’s regional director for Europe, told reporters.
“Simply put, this winter is going to be about survival.”
The damage to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure “is already having devastating effects on the health system and the health of the population,” added Hans Kluge.
Hospitals more operational after attacks
According to him, the WHO has recorded more than 700 attacks on Ukrainian health facilities since the start of the Russian invasion in February, which he said constitutes “a clear violation” of international humanitarian law.
This means that “hundreds of hospitals and health centers are no longer fully operational,” he said.
“We expect two to three million more people to leave their homes in search of warmth and safety.”
“They will face significant health problems, including respiratory infections such as covid-19, pneumonia, influenza, and a serious risk of diphtheria and measles in an under-vaccinated population,” added Hans Kluge.
Source: BFM TV
