Verified child casualties in Ukraine have surged by more than 200% this spring, according to new UN data released this week. Between 1 March and 31 May 2025, 222 children were killed or injured, compared to 73 in the previous three months.
The sharp rise in harm to children highlights the deadly impact of explosive weapons used in populated areas across Ukraine. In April alone, 97 children were killed or maimed, marking the highest monthly toll verified by the UN since June 2022.
CHILDREN FACE RELENTLESS THREATS TO LIFE AND WELLBEING
“There is no respite from the war for children across Ukraine,” said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia.
The intense attacks are destroying not only lives but also every aspect of childhood, from education to emotional security. Damage to health facilities and schools leaves children vulnerable now. It also affects them in the long term. Damage to water systems and safe spaces has similar effects.
Meanwhile, heavy fighting in northeastern and eastern regions continues to drive mass displacement and growing humanitarian needs.
Families urgently require cash assistance, essential supplies, mental health services, and broader child protection support to survive.
NEW ONLINE AND OFFLINE RISKS EMERGE FOR CHILDREN
Besides physical danger, modern warfare is exposing children to new risks blending the digital and physical worlds.
UN agencies report that children are being influenced online to carry out sabotage, attacks, or intelligence gathering in Ukraine. At least two boys died and one was injured during such activities, which place children in direct conflict-related harm.
Additionally, 91 boys and 12 girls have been detained, with 42 children convicted for involvement in the conflict. At least seven children are now incarcerated, further compounding their trauma and jeopardizing their futures.
UNICEF CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION TO PROTECT CHILDREN
UNICEF emphasizes that children recruited or exploited by any party must be treated as victims, not criminals.
The agency is working closely with the Government of Ukraine to build a child-friendly justice system focused on rehabilitation. This approach promotes restorative justice, alternatives to detention, and tailored support services for every affected child.
UNICEF also calls for full compliance with international humanitarian and human rights law to end grave violations. Children need lasting peace and protection to recover, rebuild, and reclaim their rights and well-being.
The staggering rise in child casualties underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to shield children from war’s horrors. Sustained peace, coupled with investment in child protection and mental health, is essential to secure Ukraine’s future generation.
