Statement from Desmond Swayne on situation in Ukraine
Development Minister responds to news that UN and international aid agencies have been ordered to leave separatist-controlled areas of Ukraine.
UNHCR staff distribute aid to people affected by conflict in Ukraine, March 2015. Picture: Andrew McConnell/Panos
Responding to news that separatists have ordered UN and international aid agencies to leave separatist-controlled areas of Ukraine, International Development Minister, Desmond Swayne, said:
It is outrageous and shocking that separatists in Ukraine have ordered out UN and international aid agencies with almost immediate effect.
These are neutral, impartial organisations that are looking to help people in desperate need.
As UN Under-Secretary-General Stephen O’Brien has made clear, it is imperative that separatists ensure the immediate resumption of UN and international NGO activities.
These organisations must be allowed to get on with the business of saving lives.
ENDS
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