Following losses in the first half of 2020, Ukraine’s economy has shown some signs of recovery. The Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing conflict in the Donbas region have both contributed to the economy’s decline. Meanwhile, the government has introduced a new law to criminalize police and military personnel for violating domestic violence. Meanwhile, investigations of homophobic and violent attacks on human rights defenders and journalists continue. In November, the owner of Kyv Post suspended publication and the staff announced their resignation on behalf of independence. The Presidential Administration’s pressure on the owner to suspend the publication has been criticized by commentators.

While the conflict in Ukraine has impacted Europe’s food supplies, the consequences of the conflict are far greater. Further violence will destroy Ukraine’s infrastructure and threaten global food supplies. As a result, food, fuel, and public services will be severely compromised. It is crucial that the conflict in Ukraine is resolved as soon as possible. A peaceful solution is needed to stop the violence. Meanwhile, the government and people of Ukraine must work to prevent the spread of violence.

Humans have inhabited Ukraine since prehistoric times. Archaeologists believe that humans used stone tools in Ukraine 30,000 years ago. Long-term settlers came to the area in the eighth century B.C., including tribes from Iran. Later, the ancient Greeks and Romans settled the country along the Black Sea coast, trading wine, silver, and gold. The Slavs eventually settled throughout the country, and their leaders, Viktor Yanukovych and Petro Poroshenko, were accused of rigging the elections and of poisoning.

While senior officials have said that the United States would never accept Russian annexation of Crimea, sanctions in the past have not offered much flexibility. The administration continues to maintain sanctions against Russian officials, even after the President hosted Poroshenko prior to his first meeting with Putin. Still, the policy in Ukraine should be consistent. There is no reason for the current situation to not be discussed with the Kremlin. So, what can be done now?

European states must take immediate steps to prepare for the influx of refugees. In order to provide adequate protection for all refugees, they must ensure the safe passage of migrants into their territories. The European Union must also ensure full asylum to all Ukrainians fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. This crisis has displaced millions of people in Eastern Ukraine. So, the International Rescue Committee has called on the Russian government to stop violating international law and stop violating international agreements.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is not the only crisis that has affected the country’s infrastructure. In addition to causing economic and social damage, Russia’s actions have resulted in a surge in refugees from other countries. Ukraine has hosted around 4 million of these refugees, most of whom are women. Furthermore, women displaced from Ukraine face particular risks. They face abuse, violence, and exploitation. So, what can the international community do to help?