Sharp Rise in Child Casualties in Ukraine: Over 200% Surge in Just Three Months, Warns UN.
Kyiv:
The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine has reached a devastating new peak for children, as verified data from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission reveals a staggering over 200% increase in child casualties between March and May 2025, compared to the previous three months. A total of 222 children were killed or injured during this period, compared to 73 between December 2024 and February 2025.
This alarming rise is being attributed to the continued use of explosive weapons in populated areas, with April alone recording 97 child casualties — the highest UN-verified monthly figure since June 2022.
“There is no respite from the war for children across Ukraine,” said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia. “The situation for children is at a critical juncture, as intense attacks continue to not only destroy lives but disrupt every aspect of childhood.”
War’s Impact Extends Beyond the Battlefield
Children in Ukraine are suffering not only from direct physical harm, but also from the widespread destruction of essential infrastructure. Schools, hospitals, water systems, electricity networks, and recreational spaces have been damaged or destroyed, undermining the very foundation of childhood development and safety.
In north-eastern and eastern Ukraine, intensifying hostilities are causing fresh waves of internal displacement, forcing families to flee repeatedly. This has led to surging humanitarian needs, including mental health services, cash support, emergency supplies, and comprehensive child protection services.
Alarming Rise in Online-Driven Child Exploitation
Compounding the crisis is the emergence of new-age warfare tactics, where children are being influenced online to participate in real-world conflict activities. This includes sabotage, information gathering, or targeting military facilities — actions that have led to tragic consequences.
According to the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission, at least two boys died and one was injured in the course of such activities. Ukrainian law enforcement also reported that 91 boys and 12 girls have been detained, with 42 children convicted and at least seven incarcerated for their roles in the conflict.
UNICEF strongly condemned this disturbing trend and urged all parties to cease the use of children in any conflict-related roles. Authorities were also called upon to treat these children as victims and to prioritize rehabilitation over punishment.
Strengthening Child Justice and Protection
UNICEF is actively working with the Government of Ukraine to build a child-friendly justice system. This includes:
- Providing comprehensive legal support for children.
- Promoting alternatives to detention.
- Supporting restorative justice approaches.
- Emphasizing rehabilitation tailored to children’s best interests.
Call for International Compliance and Peace
UNICEF reiterated its call for immediate adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law. The organization stressed that grave violations against children must end and that sustained, lasting peace is the only path forward.
“Children in Ukraine deserve a future of peace, dignity, and protection,” said De Dominicis. “Every day without peace deepens the scars. It is time to put children first — not on the frontlines.”
As Ukraine’s war grinds on with increasing brutality, the price children are paying continues to grow. The world must act to ensure their rights, lives, and futures are not lost in the rubble of war.
