Today, August 19, the world marks World Humanitarian Day. On this day, we pay tribute to the memory of all those who help and save others, risking their own lives – humanitarian workers, volunteers, and rescuers.

Since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, 93 employees of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine have been killed in the line of duty, and nearly 400 rescuers have been injured.

Since February 2022, Russia's attacks in Ukraine have resulted in more than 150 incidents that have directly affected humanitarian assistance, and more than 50 humanitarian workers have been killed or injured. In the same period, more than 60 airstrikes were carried out on humanitarian warehouses. In December 2023, five warehouses of non-governmental humanitarian organizations providing essential assistance to vulnerable populations in Kherson and the region were destroyed. United Nations convoys transporting humanitarian aid have also been targeted and shelled. This year, 12 humanitarian aid distribution points have been attacked by Russia.

Unfortunately, these tragic numbers are increasing almost daily. For example, on August 14, as a result of the Russian attacks on Kupyansk and Kherson, humanitarian workers of the IBC Ukraine Foundation were killed, and ADRA Ukraine employees were injured.

We bow to the memory of those who gave their lives for the sake of others and wish a speedy recovery to all the injured.

Ukraine is deeply grateful to all those who selflessly continue to fulfil their humanitarian mission in the challenging security environment. In this regard, we would like to express our gratitude and emphasize the importance of further work in Ukraine by humanitarian agencies and organizations of the UN system in supporting the efforts of the Government of Ukraine to overcome the humanitarian consequences of Russia's armed aggression against Ukraine – the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Ukraine, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, the International Organization for Migration, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the World Food Programme, and all humanitarian partners.

We also express our sincere gratitude to the donor community for their financial support of the humanitarian response in Ukraine. Given the urgent humanitarian situation, we appeal for proper funding of the UN's Humanitarian Response Plan for Ukraine in 2024.

We draw attention to the fate of millions of Ukrainian citizens who are forced to survive in challenging conditions and under constant pressure on the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine. We emphasize the need to intensify international efforts to ensure humanitarian access to people in these territories in accordance with international humanitarian law.

Despite the burden of Russian aggression, Ukraine remains committed to humanitarian ideals and principles. Even in times of full-scale war, Ukraine not only asks for help, but also helps others.

In particular, within the framework of the humanitarian program Grain from Ukraine initiated by the President of Ukraine, our country together with international partners has already sent more than 220 thousand tons of wheat, flour, split peas and sunflower oil to Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Yemen, Nigeria, Sudan, Mauritania, DR Congo, Mozambique, Djibouti and Palestine. Thanks to the food provided by Ukraine, we managed to guarantee food security for millions of people.

In previous years, Ukraine has repeatedly come to the aid of others during crises, conflicts, and natural disasters. Ukrainian rescuers, doctors, firefighters, and other professionals helped fight fires in Greece and Türkiye, floods in Slovenia, and the consequences of an earthquake in Türkiye. Ukraine helped evacuate not only Ukrainians but also foreigners from war zones, particularly from Gaza and Afghanistan.

Ukraine consistently demonstrates leadership in international humanitarian efforts. Initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska, the Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen systematically engages international stakeholders and opinion leaders to overcome the humanitarian challenges faced not only by Ukraine but also by other countries. Year after year, this format raises essential topics such as the consequences of war, mental health, and child safety, offers solutions and consolidates efforts to overcome acute humanitarian challenges.

Achieving a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine will significantly increase our country's contribution to global food security and humanitarian response.

Ukrainians continue their heroic struggle for freedom, justice, principles, and humanitarian values based on international law for all peace-loving countries. We are convinced that together, we will be able to defeat the aggressor, win out, and restore justice.