"Once again, Ukraine's children have today been subjected to another horrific attack. This time, a market area in Kostiantynivka, in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, has come under fire during the middle of the day. There are reports of at least one child among those killed. The number of casualties is likely to rise. In Zaporizhizhia, a school and homes were reportedly damaged in further attacks.
"The UN has verified the killing and maiming of at least 1,715 children since the war escalated in February 2022, mostly from bombardment. Every attack, every life lost, or irreparably changed, etches lasting wounds deeper into the collective mental wellbeing of Ukraine's children.
"This war continues to play out as a war on children, with repercussions which could reverberate for generations.
"These attacks have to stop. Children must be given the chance to experience peace.
"Yet again, we call on all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to abide by their legal and moral obligations to protect children."
