Recent Russian attacks on Ukraine have targeted residential buildings, a school, a veterinary clinic, and other civilian infrastructure, including energy and port facilities. These strikes, which have been ongoing for nearly 24 hours, represent one of the most intense periods of the conflict to date.
Ukrainian authorities reported at least 15 civilians killed and 127 injured, including six children, in strikes that also affected western and central regions. Essential services like water and energy were reportedly disrupted.
Nearly 24 Hours of Continuous Strikes
Overnight, the Russian military deployed approximately 800 drones and 56 missiles, including ballistic and cruise missiles, across Ukraine. The attacks impacted civilian areas and critical infrastructure in cities like Kremenchuk and Chornomorsk.
Despite the ongoing risks, UN aid workers and officials participated in rescue efforts on Thursday morning. “Families should always feel safe,” stated Ms. Castel-Hollingsworth from the scene. “Mothers should not be waiting to know if their children are alive under the rubble after these missile attacks.”
The senior humanitarian official emphasized that humanitarian law mandates the protection of civilians, who must not be targeted.
Civilian Toll Continues to Rise
Civilian casualties in Ukraine during the first four months of 2026 have surpassed those of the same periods in the previous three years. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) attributes this rise significantly to the increased use of long-range weapons. In April alone, these weapons resulted in at least 84 civilian deaths and 628 injuries, constituting 43 percent of all civilian casualties.
“I deplore the resumption of these large-scale attacks which have resulted in civilian casualties across the country,” said UN human rights chief Volker Türk on Thursday. “Attacks by long-range weapons are one of the leading causes of civilian casualties in Ukraine. Their expanded use in populated areas will only increase the already mounting toll on civilians.”
Mr. Türk also described the loss of civilian lives from short-range drone attacks on both sides of the frontline as unacceptable and called for immediate de-escalation to prevent further suffering.
