The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has warned that increased military activity in Ukraine will exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and lead to increased displacement.
The IRC’s warning followed President Vladimir Putin’s announcement on Wednesday to launch the immediate partial mobilization of Russian citizens in the conflict.
Moscow will call up 300,000 reservists as part of its strategy, according to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.
“Russia’s move to mobilize additional armed forces puts the conflict on a new and dangerous path,” IRC Ukraine country director Marysia Zapasnik said in a statement.
“A further escalation of fighting is a major concern for the Ukrainian people, both inside the country and for those who have left.
“Over the past seven months, Ukraine has experienced a desperate spiral into humanitarian catastrophe, with nearly 18 million people in need of shelter, food and healthcare and the future looks bleak as winter approaches and conditions worsen. Meanwhile, displacement could increase as more people try to leave the country to seek safety in neighboring countries.”
Recent figures from the UN refugee agency show that more than 7.2 million refugees from Ukraine have been registered across Europe.
“The consequences of the conflict will be long-lasting: if the war deepens and drags on even longer, the people of Ukraine could face poverty and the vulnerabilities that come with it for years to come,” added Zapasnik .
“The only solution is an immediate ceasefire.”
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been a key point of discussion for world leaders gathered in New York City for the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is the only world leader to speak via video as he grapples with the war in his country. The Assembly on Friday overruled Russian objections to allow Zelensky to speak virtually.
CNN’s Richard Roth contributed reporting.
