UNICEF Demands Immediate End to Attacks on Civilians in Ukraine After Nine Children Killed in Kryvyi Rih Missile Strike.
Geneva:
UNICEF has issued a powerful call for the immediate cessation of attacks on civilian areas in Ukraine following a devastating missile strike in Kryvyi Rih that reportedly claimed the lives of at least nine children and left many more injured.
In a heartfelt statement, Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and condemned the continued violence targeting residential areas.
“We are devastated by the horrific attack in Kryvyi Rih that reportedly killed at least nine children and injured many more, including one as young as three months old,” said De Dominicis. “No child should ever suffer such terror. No parent should ever endure such pain.”
The missile is reported to have struck a residential neighborhood in the Saksahanskyi district during the early evening — a time when families typically gather to begin their weekend. The attack landed near a playground and tore through homes, a school, and a restaurant. Heart-wrenching scenes emerged in the aftermath, with parents seen holding their lifeless children amid the wreckage.
A Pattern of Violence Against Children
According to UN-verified data, more than 2,500 children have been killed or injured since the escalation of the conflict in February 2022. UNICEF emphasized that the use of explosive weapons in populated areas — especially those impacting schools, hospitals, and homes — continues to disproportionately harm children.
“Every child killed is a future stolen,” said De Dominicis. “The brutal use of explosive weapons in populated areas and attacks on civilian infrastructure must end.”
UNICEF Responding on the Ground
UNICEF teams, alongside their partners, are actively working in Kryvyi Rih and surrounding areas, coordinating with local authorities to provide emergency relief and psychosocial support to affected families. “The response is ongoing,” De Dominicis confirmed.
A Plea for Peace
The statement concluded with an urgent appeal for peace, protection, and hope for Ukraine’s children. “Children in Ukraine need peace. They need protection. They need a sense of hope for the future, not more grief and pain,” De Dominicis said.
UNICEF continues to call on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians — especially children — from the devastating impact of armed conflict.
