Ukraine enters its fifth year of full-scale war while facing a massive increase in attacks on hospitals and facilities. Specifically, these targeted strikes on health care increased by nearly 20% during 2025 compared to the previous year.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented at least 2,881 attacks affecting health workers and ambulances since February 2022. Furthermore, these persistent strikes on civilian infrastructure have left deep gaps in the medical services available to the population. Consequently, many people in frontline areas now report their physical health as poor or very poor.
Mental Health and Chronic Disease Surge
The ongoing conflict has created a staggering mental health crisis that affects millions of people across the country today. A recent survey revealed that 72% of Ukrainians experienced anxiety or depression within the past twelve months. Despite these high numbers, only one in five individuals sought professional help for their emotional well-being. Additionally, cardiovascular diseases are surging, with one in four citizens now experiencing dangerously high blood pressure levels. Eight out of ten people also report that they cannot access the essential medicines they need for survival.
Targeting Logistics and Medical Supplies
In 2025, attacks on medical warehouses tripled compared to the previous year, disrupting critical logistics and supply chains. These strikes purposefully target the warehouses that store medicines and equipment necessary for delivering life-saving care. Over the past four years, 233 health workers and patients have tragically lost their lives during these incidents. Furthermore, at least 930 people suffered injuries while seeking or providing medical assistance in these vulnerable zones. These targeted attacks constitute clear violations of international humanitarian law that protect medical personnel during active conflicts.
WHO Support and Future Outlook
Despite the intense pressure, the WHO successfully reached 1.9 million people across Ukraine with vital medical supplies in 2025. They focus their support on frontline and hard-to-reach locations where the health system is currently struggling the most. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that the best medicine for the people of Ukraine is a lasting peace. However, until peace arrives, the international community must provide sustained support to keep hospitals warm and supplied. This assistance remains critical for heart patients, amputees, and teenagers who are currently living in constant fear.
Quick Facts: The Healthcare Toll in Ukraine
Total Attacks: At least 2,881 attacks documented since the full-scale war began in February 2022.
Casualties: 233 people killed and 930 injured during strikes on various healthcare facilities and medical vehicles.
Supply Crisis: Attacks on medical warehouses tripled in 2025, making medicine distribution extremely difficult for providers.
Hypertension Risk: One in four Ukrainians now lives with dangerously high blood pressure due to chronic stress.
Expert Q&A: Understanding the Health Crisis
Q: How do attacks on the power grid affect Ukrainian hospitals?
Strikes on thermal power plants create cascading effects that threaten the power supply needed for surgeries and medical equipment.
Q: Is the WHO still able to deliver medicine to the frontlines?
Yes, the WHO reached nearly two million people in 2025 through service delivery, supplies, and medical referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much did attacks on health care increase in 2025?
Attacks on healthcare facilities and workers increased by nearly 20% compared to the data recorded in 2024.
What is the current state of mental health in Ukraine?
Approximately 72% of surveyed people experienced anxiety or depression, but very few have sought help for these issues.
Are medical warehouses being specifically targeted?
Yes, the number of attacks on medical warehouses tripled in 2025, disrupting the essential logistics of the healthcare system.
How does health in frontline areas compare to the rest of the country?
About 59% of people in frontline areas report poor health, compared to 47% in non-frontline regions of Ukraine.
