American volunteer Pete Reed killed in Bakhmut

Reid began his humanitarian career working in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, which raged in his home state of New Jersey.

He also reportedly led medical teams during the battle for Mosul in Iraq, treating more than 10,000 traumatised people.

A statement from Global Response Medicine, a medical aid group that Reid founded, said:

GRM founder Pete Reid died in Bakhmut, Ukraine. Pete was the backbone of GRM, serving as chairman of the board for 4 years. In January Pete stepped away from GRM to work with Global Outreach Doctors on their mission in Ukraine, and was killed while providing care.

It is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by rescuers and aid workers in conflict zones as they assist citizens caught in the crossfire. Pete was only 33, but he lived his life serving others, first as a decorated US Marine and then in humanitarian relief. GRM will try to honour his legacy and the selfless service he practised.