Ukraine Urges UN and Red Cross to Support Humanitarian Efforts in Russia’s Kursk Region Under Ukrainian Control

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has called on the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross to assist in humanitarian efforts in areas of the Kursk region of Russia currently under the control of Ukrainian forces.

According to a statement from the Ministry, Ukraine is committed to upholding international humanitarian law and human rights standards while exercising control over parts of the Kursk region. The ministry emphasized the importance of protecting civilians during ongoing military operations.

“Since the beginning of the Kursk operation, Ukraine’s Defense Forces, as a professional European army, have demonstrated adherence to international humanitarian principles. Civilians in the region have been provided with humanitarian aid, access to basic needs, and the opportunity to evacuate from conflict zones,” the statement reads.

In response to the humanitarian situation and the need to safeguard basic human rights in the region, Ukraine has formally requested that the UN and Red Cross engage in humanitarian response efforts. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent official notes to both organizations.

Ukraine has confirmed its full compliance with international obligations in the areas of humanitarian law and has expressed readiness to provide comprehensive support to the work of UN and Red Cross personnel in the controlled territories.

Earlier, Ukraine’s military operation in the Kursk region began on August 6, 2024. By August 27, Ukraine had taken control of more than 100 settlements across approximately 1,294 square kilometers. Ukrainian forces have captured over 500 Russian soldiers since the start of the operation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the operation is aimed at creating a buffer zone to prevent further Russian military actions against Ukraine. On September 13, he highlighted that the operation in the Kursk region had successfully halted Russian advances near Kharkiv and slowed their progress in the Donetsk region.