The United Nations says it will need nearly one billion dollars next year in humanitarian aid for Myanmar, which has been racked by turmoil since the 2021 military coup.

The UN describes the situation in the country as grim. It says one third of the population, or about 18 million people, is estimated to be in need of some form of assistance.

In a report released on Monday, the UN says amid intensified fighting with pro-democracy forces and ethnic militants, the military launched more than 900 air strikes or drone attacks this year. It says the number is almost double that from last year.

The report also says civilian landmine casualties occurred in all parts of the country, except for the capital Naypyitaw.

The UN says the almost one billion dollars it is requesting is for some 5 million people who have been prioritized for urgent assistance.

It says it has only received some 30 percent of the funds needed to provide aid this year, and is calling on the international community to do more to prevent Myanmar from becoming a forgotten emergency.