As Russia continues to batter Ukraine with airstrikes leaving hundreds of civilians without water or electricity, U.S. oil and gas companies are stepping up efforts to provide financial relief to war-hit Ukrainians.

Devon Energy announced on March 18 a pledge of up to $20 million to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine and neighboring countries supporting Ukrainian refugees. In a press release, Devon said that the donations "will be split among several organizations providing emergency medical care, food supplies, financial support and housing for displaced civilians and refugees in the region."

“We heard Ukrainian President Zelensky’s call for help in his address to the American people and are stepping up,” Rick Muncrief, president and CEO of Devon Energy, said in a statement. “Ukrainians need medical assistance, food and shelter, and I am proud that Devon and our employees are doing what we can to help those desperately in need. Russia’s unprovoked invasion has led to a humanitarian crisis in Ukraine that calls upon the global community—governments, businesses, and individuals—to act in solidarity.”

In a similar effort, Pioneer Natural Resources announced on March 18 humanitarian aid of $20 million to organizations operating in Ukraine and the surrounding region.

“The death and destruction along with the displacement of millions of Ukrainians caused by Russia’s unprovoked invasion requires assistance from both governments across the world and the global business community. Pioneer and our employees are proud to support our friends in Ukraine," Pioneer CEO Scott D. Sheffield said in a statement.

He added, "We sincerely hope to see the conflict end as quickly as possible, and our thoughts are with all those impacted.”

Civitas Resources Inc. also announced a pledge of $10 million in humanitarian aid to Ukrainians and refugees impacted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The Colorado-based oil and gas producer said that the funds will be distributed to numerous charitable organizations associated with immediate refugee assistance for displaced Ukrainians as well as other peaceful humanitarian efforts.

Ben Dell, Civitas chairman and interim CEO, commented, “The tragic events still unfolding in Ukraine have created unimaginable suffering for millions of people, and our hearts go out to those whose lives have been upended by violence. As Civitas is committed to responsible global citizenship, we feel compelled to provide resources to those most impacted by the senseless invasion of Ukraine. We hope for an immediate end to this conflict.”

During the past weeks, several oil and gas companies, including U.S. oil major Exxon Mobil Corp. announced exiting Russian operations.

“We deplore Russia’s military action that violates the territorial integrity of Ukraine and endangers its people,” the company said in a statement critical of the intensifying military attacks.