Deadly violence in Kyiv, Ukraine, escalated this week during clashes between anti-government protestors and government forces. Protests have been ongoing since November, but fighting intensified despite a declared truce between opposition leaders and the Ukrainian government on Wednesday.

According to reports, snipers and gunfire killed an estimated 42 people on Thursday, pushing the related death toll to around 70. Hundreds have been injured in the city center since February 18, though unconfirmed local estimates put that number higher.

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The Church of the Nazarene’s Global Mission Department reports all Nazarene missionaries in the area are safe.

Local Nazarene doctors and volunteers are working as part of the emergency medical response effort in neighboring hospitals, which are overcrowded and not sufficiently resourced.

Several nearby churches and hotels are now makeshift hospitals as doctors and volunteers work to help the victims.

The Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) Field, reports NCM staff and local churches, led by the Nazarene District Superintendent, are working together to create an official emergency response plan.

In addition to prayer, the greatest need is for donations to provide medical supplies, blankets, clothing, and meals.

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