The verified number of children killed or injured in Ukraine between 1 March and 31 May 2025 increased by more than 200 per cent compared to the previous quarter, according to data from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission to Ukraine.
222 children were killed or injured between 1 March and 31 May 2025, compared to 73 between 1 December 2024 and 28 February 2025. The ongoing use of explosive weapons in populated areas has been particularly deadly and destructive.
Only in April this year, 97 children were killed or maimed, the highest UN-verified monthly number of child casualties since June 2022.
"There is no respite from the war for children across Ukraine," said UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, Regina De Dominicis. "The situation for children is at a critical juncture, as intense attacks continue to not only destroy lives but disrupt every aspect of childhood."
The destruction and damage to health facilities, educational infrastructure, water and electricity networks, and safe places to play, all impact children today and into the future. At the same time, intense hostilities in areas of the north-east and eastern regions continue to result in waves of internal displacement and increased humanitarian needs, including cash assistance, essential supplies, as well as mental health, psychosocial and broader child protection support.
There are also new threats evolving for children, as modern warfare merges online risks with deadly offline impacts. The use of children, through online influence, to conduct activities in Ukraine, such as attacks on military objects, sabotage, or information gathering, is particularly concerning and puts their safety and well-being at risk.
As reported by the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, at least two boys died, and one was injured during such acts. In addition, 91 boys and 12 girls have reportedly been detained, with 42 children convicted for their involvement in the conflict, leading to the incarceration of at least seven children, according to data from Ukrainian law enforcement authorities.
The use of children by any party to conflict must cease, and authorities are urged to treat children as victims and to take swift action to support and protect them, including by ensuring access to child-friendly justice services.
UNICEF is working with the Government of Ukraine to strengthen the child-friendly justice system that empowers and protects children by ensuring access to comprehensive legal support services, promoting alternatives to detention, as well as emphasising restorative justice and rehabilitation tailored to the unique needs and best interests of every child.
UNICEF continues to call for immediate compliance with international humanitarian and human rights law and to end and prevent grave violations against children. Children need sustained and lasting peace to recover, one in which their rights and wellbeing are protected and prioritised.
