New Zealand is putting aside an initial $2 million for humanitarian aid to help the people of Ukraine.
Minister for Local Government Nanaia Mahuta holds a press conference in the Beehive Theatrette on the Three Waters reform. Photo: Pool image / Robert Kitchin /Stuff
The funding will go towards supporting health facilities on the ground and providing basic needs - such as food and hygiene items.
In a statement announcing the funding, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta repeated a call for Russia to cease military operations in Ukraine and immediately withdraw.
"It is deeply disturbing to hear reports of the growing numbers of deaths and injuries from this conflict. The harrowing and horrific images of displaced or suffering civilians in Ukraine speak volumes of this unfolding tragedy, and underlines the consequences of Russia's unprovoked aggression," the statement said.
"We repeat our call, alongside international partners, for Russia to cease military operations in Ukraine, and immediately and permanently withdraw to avoid a catastrophic and pointless loss of innocent life."
Mahuta said Russia should take all possible steps to protect civilians in line with international law, and return to diplomatic negotiations to de-escalate the conflict.
She said New Zealand would continue to monitor events closely.