By Savannah Paolillo | Donor Services
More than four years into full-scale war, Ukrainians are enduring their most brutal winter yet. Intensified strikes have left millions without reliable heat, electricity, medical care or access to essential medicines. The humanitarian crisis is particularly severe in eastern Ukraine, where communities have faced more than a decade of conflict and coping mechanisms are exhausted.
Since the escalation of war in 2022, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) has delivered emergency support inside Ukraine and in neighboring countries hosting refugees. As the war enters its fifth year, the IRC continues to work on the frontlines in close partnership with local organizations, providing critical assistance to families in need. The IRC also supports Ukrainian refugees rebuilding their lives across Europe.
More than 12 million people need humanitarian aid
The human toll continues to rise. Over the past year, casualties reached their highest levels since the escalation. Today, more than 10.8 million people require humanitarian assistance. Nearly 10 million people have been displaced, including 3.3 million internally displaced people. IRC data indicates that over 40% of households report their homes have been damaged or destroyed. Nationwide estimates suggest nearly 2 million homes have been affected. As temperatures fall, damaged housing leaves families exposed to life-threatening cold.
What support do Ukrainians need?
Access to health care remains the most urgent need. More than 70% of people surveyed identify health services as their top concern, and one in five families reports illness linked to freezing indoor conditions. More than half of Ukrainians face unmet health needs.
Without adequate heating, electricity or income to purchase fuel, firewood and warm clothing, countless families are struggling to stay warm. Many are living in buildings damaged by conflict, with broken windows and cracked walls allowing cold air inside. The elderly are among the most vulnerable, with Ukraine’s over-60 population comprising 30% of those in need of humanitarian assistance. Many have limited mobility and depend entirely on external support to survive the winter.
Donate now to support the IRC's life-changing work in Europe and worldwide. We are on the frontlines providing critical aid to crisis-affected people in more than 40 countries, including places on the 2025 Emergency Watchlist.
By Savannah Paolillo | Donor Services
By Savannah Paolillo | Donor Services
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