My thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, who woke up this morning to escalating conflict in their country. I am extremely concerned for their safety.
The consequences of the latest fighting are immediate: Within minutes, people have had to leave their lives behind in a desperate search for a safe haven.
The International Committee of the Red Cross continues to stand with the people of Ukraine. Our teams are at work right now aiding those in need.
I am calling for 3 things to happen today:
· Parties to the conflict must respect the rules of warfare. Protect civilians and detainees. Spare the critical infrastructure that keeps homes, schools and medical facilities running.
· All states must do everything in their power and influence to avoid escalating a conflict whose cost falls heaviest on the civilian populations.
· Neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian action must be protected so that the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement can provide vital services to civilians.