Published on: 2026-04-16
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The UN humanitarian coordinator in Ukraine, Matthias Schmale, condemned another wave of Russian strikes on the Dnipro, Kyiv, and Odesa, resulting in dozens of civilians killed and injured. According to him, large Ukrainian cities once again experienced massive strikes last night, and the number of victims continues to grow as rescuers work at the rubble.
In Dnipro, Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odessa, thousands of families spent the night in shelters. Many lost their homes as a result of the strikes. Emergency service workers were also hit by the shelling, which highlights the growing risks for those providing assistance to the victims.
“This cycle of violence must end,” Shmalé said.
Particular concern at the UN is caused by data on affected children. According to information from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission, in March 2026, 89 children were killed or injured – 65 percent more than in February. Among the deceased was a 12-year-old boy in Kyiv. Overall, for the first quarter, the number of affected children increased by almost 50 percent compared to the same period last year.
UNICEF representative Ann-Claire Dufay emphasized that children suffer throughout the country, far from the front line, and the main threat remains long-range missiles and drones. Since February 2022, at least 3,452 cases of children killed or injured have been confirmed, but the real numbers may be higher.
“Every child who has died or been wounded leaves a deep wound in the hearts of their loved ones and entire communities. No family should have to endure such unbearable pain,” said Ann-Claire Dufeu.
The ongoing war forces families to change their place of residence repeatedly: every third Ukrainian teenager aged 15–19 has reported at least two relocations. Among other factors influencing the change of residence, the desire to obtain better access to education and social services is mentioned.
Please note; This information is unprocessed content received directly from the information source. It represents an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.