Clashes intensify in eastern Ukraine, aid struggles to reach civilians

Global Business

Clashes intensify in eastern Ukraine, aid struggles to reach civilians

Fighting intensified in eastern Ukraine as the region continues to see conflict between Ukrainian soldiers and Russian-backed separatists for nearly three years.

CGTN’s Natalie Carney reports.
Follow Natalie Carney on Twitter @NatalieCarney77

The pre-conflict population was around 33,000 people — today less than half remain. Avdiivka has been one of the worst flash points.

Twelve Ukrainian soldiers and a civilian killed and dozens wounded.

It’s become a humanitarian crisis, according to the UNHCR, The UN Refugee Agency – many residents are without electricity, heat and water.

Aid organizations, including the Ukrainian army’s Civilian Military cooperation unit, jumped in to help.

Closer to the front lines, the effects of war are even more apparent. Electricity has been restored but wells provide the only access to clean drinking water for residents.

Aid distribution is a lifeline for Avdiivka’s elderly, as many receive a small monthly pension.

Despite the escalation in violence, only 300 residents chose to evacuate the town, making all this humanitarian aid all that more important for the thousands that have chosen to stay.