Caritas Continues to Support Ukrainians and Prepares Long-Term Solutions

Two years after the start of the war and nearly ten years since the conflict began in eastern Ukraine, the humanitarian situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate. The situation will not improve unless hostilities cease. This is how two local Caritas organizations, Caritas Ukraine and Caritas Spes Ukraine, describe the situation two years after the invasion that began on February 24, 2022.

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The organizations are grateful to the entire Caritas family. They thank the over 2,600 Caritas employees and volunteers who have provided humanitarian aid to more than 3.8 million people over the past two years. The aid has been multifaceted, including food, shelter, health and hygiene supplies, cash assistance, healthcare, and psychosocial support. The organizations' support has also included protection and education programs:

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"Since the beginning of the war, Caritas Ukraine and Caritas-Spes Ukraine have been exemplary in their work, caring for their people throughout the conflict. We are very grateful to them. We continue to support them and raise our voices demanding an end to this conflict," says Caritas Internationalis Secretary General Alistair Dutton.

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Unfortunately, the fighting continues in Ukraine. Attacks on civilian infrastructure, such as the Kahovka dam, have led to a worsening humanitarian situation. In these areas, 40 percent of the population needs humanitarian aid, and over 6 million Ukrainians have been displaced.

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In eastern and southern Ukraine, including areas occupied by Russia, millions of people lack adequate water, food, shelter, proper housing, and access to healthcare services. The conflict has had devastating consequences for what was once Europe's breadbasket. There is significant environmental destruction, with contaminated water and soil. Experts have predicted that clearing mines alone will take over 700 years.

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Despite the difficulties, Caritas organizations are preparing long-term operational plans – experts predict that the war could last for a decade.

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“We must be ready to provide long-term assistance to address the significant humanitarian crisis in Ukraine,” says Father Vyacheslav Grynevych, Director of Caritas-Spes Ukraine.

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“We are doing everything we can to help those in need, but we cannot talk about true recovery until hostilities cease and the occupied areas are liberated. Caritas Ukraine helps people survive. We look at the recipient's situation holistically,” says Tetiana Stawnychy, President of Caritas Ukraine.

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On the second anniversary of the war, Caritas appeals and asks the international community to continue their work for Ukraine

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“Your support gives us hope that we are not alone and allows us to help those in need. So please continue supporting Ukraine,” adds Stawnychy.

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“Thanks to our benefactors and partners who help us bear the cross of service during the war, just as Simon of Cyrene helped carry the cross of Jesus Christ. We have already completed 730 stations of the Cross, 730 days of war. How many days lie ahead?” says Father Grynevich.

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