Novartis condemns the war in Ukraine. This unprovoked act of violence harms innocent people and defies our mission to improve human health globally.
As a medicines company, in the last few days, we have delivered more than 600 thousand packs of antibiotics, painkillers, cardio-vascular, and oncology treatments to maintain supply to those who rely on these drugs in Ukraine and in the border areas where people are seeking refuge.
Novartis has also made an initial USD 3 million donation to charities supporting refugees and displaced people in Ukraine and bordering countries. We are continuing to support our employees and their families in Ukraine, and those who have left the country. Our thoughts are with the citizens of Ukraine, Novartis will continue to contribute to the humanitarian efforts in and for the people of the country.
We remain committed to providing access to medicines to patients in every country where we operate. At the same time, we are careful to comply with the international sanctions imposed upon Russia.
We have implemented a package of measures that include suspending capital investments, media advertising, and other promotional activities in Russia. In addition to that, while we remain committed to provide access to our medicine in Russia, we responsibly pause the initiation of new clinical trials and the enrollment of new study participants in existing trials. These measures will be kept under review.
We are hopeful that the war in Ukraine will soon reach a peaceful resolution.