Ukrainian Death Toll Since Ceasefire Deal Close to 5,000

World Health Organization representative stated that almost 5,000 people have lost their lives and nearly 10,500 have been wounded in Ukraine since the ceasefire between independence supporters and Kiev-led forces was declared.

GENEVA, January 16 (Sputnik) – Almost 5,000 people have lost their lives and nearly 10,500 have been wounded in Ukraine since the ceasefire between independence supporters and Kiev-led forces was declared, a World Health Organization (WHO) representative said Friday.

"I happen to have the latest figures with me. As of 6th of January, there were reportedly 10,468 wounded and 4,808 killed," Dorit Nitzan said at a press conference in Geneva.

According to Nitzan, the WHO is no longer able to provide the necessary assistance in eastern Ukraine because of the intensifying armed conflict in the region. The organization said it is ready to resume its work as soon as the opportunity arises.

The WHO and its partners currently need $23 million to help more than 5 million people affected by the Ukrainian crisis. Around 1.4 million of them need help urgently, Nitzan added.

There is a high risk of polio, measles, and other infectious diseases, she noted. Ukraine's Health Ministry asked the WHO to temporarily take charge of distributing essential medicines.