Attack on Humanitarian Bread Delivery That Killed Two People Highlights Growing Risks for Aid Operations in Ukraine

In the morning of 22 January, a car transporting WFP bread to the settlements of Kozacha Lopan and Nova Kozacha, Kharkiv Region, was hit near the entrance to Kozacha Lopan. Two representatives of local authorities, who were supporting the delivery and distribution of humanitarian assistance, aged 35 and 63, were killed on the spot and the vehicle was destroyed. 

The food was provided by WFP partner ADRA and intended as lifesaving humanitarian assistance for vulnerable residents living very close to the frontline, where access to food remains severely limited. 

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives while courageously helping others. Attacks on civilians are prohibited under international humanitarian law,” said Richard Ragan, WFP Country Director in Ukraine. “These repeated, senseless attacks on humanitarian operations risk cutting off frontline communities from lifesaving assistance.” 

This marks the 69th attack affecting WFP-supported programmes in the past two years, including attacks on distribution points, warehouses, vehicles, and the assets of local partners. 

WFP continues to support frontline communities every month, where many continue to depend on humanitarian assistance to survive. In the last month WFP and its partners delivered food and cash assistance to more than 600,000 Ukrainians living near the frontline.