Since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, at least 659 children have been killed and 1747 injured, which is 16 children per week. This was reported by UNICEF.
Source: interfax.com.ua
UNICEF Executive Director Kathryn Russell called the situation catastrophic:
“Children are dying in their beds, in hospitals and on playgrounds. The price children are paying is staggering and unacceptable. Families are devastated by the loss of young lives or serious injuries.”
At least 662 medical facilities and 1496 educational institutions have been damaged or destroyed. 1.7 million children do not have access to safe water, and 3.4 million children lack centralized sanitation, increasing the risk of disease. Many children spend up to six hours a day in shelters due to constant air raids.
The intensification of hostilities since July 2024 has significantly increased the number of children affected and the damage to infrastructure.
Russell emphasized that the long-term impact of war on children has severe psychological consequences:
“Millions of children live in constant fear. Without adequate support, the psychological trauma of this war will affect generations to come.”
UNICEF calls on the international community to increase support for children in Ukraine by providing them with basic needs such as safe water, vital medical and social services, and psychological assistance.
