About 57 people have been killed and 169 others injured following attacks by Russia forces on Ukraine.
Those killed include both combat and non-combat, according Viktor Lyashko, Ukraine’s Minister of Healthcare.
The minister spoke on Ukraine’s 1+1 TV channel, while giving update on the attack on Ukraine by Russia.
According to him, hospitals and medical workers had also come under fire on Thursday, including in Avdiivka and Vuhledar in Donetsk, with casualties reported among medical workers.
The UN Agency for Refugee (UNHCR), said it was gravely concerned about the fast-deteriorating situation and ongoing military action in Ukraine.
“There are no winners in war, but countless lives will be torn apart. We have already seen reports of casualties and people starting to flee their homes to seek safety. Civilian lives and civilian infrastructure must be protected and safeguarded at all times, in line with International Humanitarian Law.
“UNHCR is working with the authorities, UN and other partners in Ukraine and is ready to provide humanitarian assistance wherever necessary and possible. To that effect, security and access for humanitarian efforts must be guaranteed,’ it said in a statement.
It added that “UNHCR is also working with governments in neighboring countries, calling on them to keep borders open to those seeking safety and protection. We stand ready to support efforts by all to respond to any situation of forced displacement.
“Accordingly, we have stepped up our operations and capacity in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. We remain firmly committed to support all affected populations in Ukraine and countries in the region.”