UNHCR's Response in Ukraine - update 3.3.22

UNHCR delivers first humanitarian airlift to Republic of Moldova for refugees from Ukraine

The shipment consisted of around 8,000 thermal blankets and is destined for refugees fleeing Ukraine who have crossed the border to the Republic of Moldova. Further shipments are expected to arrive to Moldova by land in the coming days. This includes urgent needed sleeping bags, more blankets, hygienic and baby kits, solar lamps and other relief items.

UNHCR is troubled to report that 1 million refugees have fled Ukraine. This occurred during the night of 2-3 March. In view of the volatility of the situation in the entire territory of Ukraine, UNHCR does not consider it appropriate to deny international protection to Ukrainians and former habitual residents of Ukraine on the basis of an internal flight or relocation alternative.

Countries in the region and further afield have shown immense solidarity and borders are for now open. Long lines can be seen at the borders of Poland and Moldova, in the footage shared by the UNHCR Regional Representative Roland Schilling at Palanca, at the Moldovan border.

UNHCR staff are working around the clock to provide support and protection to all that needs our help. More staff are now being deployed to seven countries in the region to boost operations.?