Kiev, Ukraine – The Ukrainian authorities announced the start of forced evacuations of thousands of people from a number of villages located in the Kharkiv region in the northeast of the country.
This comes in light of the deteriorating security situation and the escalation of risks resulting from the ongoing military operations in the region.
Agence France-Presse quoted Ukrainian officials as saying that the decision includes several population centers.
Residents were also asked to leave their homes and go to safer areas for their safety.
Urgent measures to protect civilians
The authorities in Ukraine confirmed that the evacuations come as a precautionary measure
aimed at protecting civilians from the repercussions of the ongoing fighting.
She indicated that the competent authorities provided the necessary means of transportation and shelter centers to receive the displaced.
She added that emergency teams and local services are working to carry out evacuations in an organized manner.
In addition, priority is given to the elderly, children and people with special needs.
Tensions escalate in Kharkiv
The Kharkiv region of Ukraine has been experiencing ongoing clashes and attacks for months.
This has led to increased risks to the population and civilian infrastructure.
The region is among the most affected by the military operations due to its proximity to the Russian border.
Consequently, these developments have prompted Ukrainian authorities
to implement a series of security and humanitarian measures in recent months.
Continued field monitoring
The authorities in Ukraine indicated that they continue to evaluate the field conditions on an ongoing basis.
It also confirmed its readiness to take additional measures if security conditions required it.
The evacuation decision comes at a time when military operations are continuing on a number of fronts.
At the same time, government efforts continue to reduce risks to civilians and secure the needs of populations affected by the conflict.
