[WATCH] 'Devastating' consequences to Ukraine invasion: UN refugee chief
Updated | By AFP
The UN refugee chief warned on Thursday Russia's invasion of Ukraine would have
"devastating" humanitarian consequences and urged neighbouring
countries to keep borders open to those fleeing the violence.
"We are gravely concerned about the fast-deteriorating situation and ongoing military action in Ukraine," Felippo Grandi said in a statement.
"The humanitarian consequences on civilian populations will be devastating. There are no winners in war but countless lives will be torn apart."
READ: Eighteen killed in attack near Ukraine's Odessa
His warning came hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, killing dozens and forcing hundreds to flee for their lives in the pro-Western neighbour.
"Civilian lives and civilian infrastructure must be protected and safeguarded at all times, in line with International Humanitarian Law," Grandi said.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees said his agency and its partners in Ukraine stood "ready to provide humanitarian assistance wherever necessary and possible."
"To that effect, security and access for humanitarian efforts must be guaranteed," he said, adding that the agency had stepped up its operations in Ukraine and in the region to respond to the anticipated worsening situation.
ALSO READ: Russia faces 'unprecedented isolation' over Ukraine attack: EU
"UNHCR is also working with governments in neighbouring countries, calling on them to keep borders open to those seeking safety and protection," he said.
"We stand ready to support efforts by all to respond to any situation of forced displacement."
People fleeing Kyiv formed long lines of traffic on Thursday, hours after Russian troops invaded Ukraine https://t.co/O8xk7WTm0W pic.twitter.com/kXfwkRPJTh
— Bloomberg Quicktake (@Quicktake) February 24, 2022
Traffic leaving Kyiv, Ukrainepic.twitter.com/xwTGwW9Aac
— Market Rebellion (@MarketRebels) February 24, 2022
Hours after Russian troops launched an attack on Ukraine, long lines of traffic could be seen on a road leading out of the capital Kyiv. pic.twitter.com/elNyh4hNFF
— DW News (@dwnews) February 24, 2022
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