UNICEF Reports Alarming Surge in Child Victims and New War-Related Risks for Children in Ukraine
Recent data released by the United Nations Monitoring Mission on Human Rights in Ukraine, supported by UNICEF Ukraine, reveal a disturbing and escalating crisis affecting children across the country. Between March 1 and May 31, 2025, a total of 222 children were killed or injured — a threefold increase compared to the previous quarter, which recorded 73 cases. The most tragic month was April, with 97 children impacted, marking the highest monthly toll since June 2022. These figures underscore the destructive impact of ongoing conflict on Ukraine's most vulnerable population — children, who suffer from damaged infrastructure, destroyed medical facilities, schools, water and electricity networks, as well as the loss of safe spaces for play and recreation. The violence extends beyond physical attacks, fueling large-scale internal displacement from the northern and eastern regions, which in turn heightens humanitarian needs. Children urgently require financial aid, essential supplies, mental health and psychosocial support, as well as comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Alarmingly, a new threat has emerged: the online manipulation and recruitment of minors for malicious activities. According to UN reports, at least two boys have been killed due to such manipulation, and another was injured. Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have detained 103 minors — 91 boys and 12 girls — with at least seven currently held in detention facilities. Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, emphasized: “The war for children across Ukraine continues relentlessly, and every aspect of their lives—from safety and health to education and mental well-being—is under threat.” She urged authorities to ensure children have access to child-friendly justice systems and support services. Social researcher Ella Libanova highlighted that each month of war results in demographic losses for Ukraine. She warned that once the conflict ends, a new wave of emigration could occur as many parents are already trying to evacuate children from danger zones, with uncertainty about whether they will return. All these factors create a complex and uncertain outlook for Ukrainian children and the country’s demographic future.