UNICEF pointed out that the war in Ukraine has killed or injured at least 2,406 children since it escalated nearly 1,000 days ago. Verified reports show that attackers killed 659 children and injured 1,747 children. They harmed at least 16 children every week.
The war has taken an unimaginable toll on the lives of millions of children. Hundreds have been killed or left with life-changing injuries; thousands remain in constant fear. And many are struggling with acute shortages of safe water, electricity, and food. According to UNICEF, their plight worsened as continued attacks. Especially since July this year, have led to increased civilian casualties and severe damage to infrastructure.
Also Read: UNICEF Warns of Global Malnutrition Crisis
Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, described the impact on children as “staggering and unacceptable.” The destruction of homes and communities continues to leave children with lifelong physical and emotional scars.
Meanwhile, attacks have also caused an unprecedented disruption of basic services. Thus, between 22 March and 31 August this year, strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure destroyed nine gigawatts of electricity capacity, about half of what the country needs during winter. This leaves many families without power, heat, or water, further worsening the suffering of children.
Millions of children live in constant fear, spending up to six hours daily sheltering in basements under the air raid sirens,” said Russell. “Without continued support, the psychological wounds of this war will affect generations.
In frontline areas alone, nearly three million people urgently need warmth, clean water.
The war has also cut 1.7 million off from access to safe water and left 3.4 million without adequate sanitation. Highly susceptible to the risk of disease in particular, as winter approaches.
“Schools, hospitals, and civilian infrastructure are lifelines for children’s recovery and resilience,” Russell said. “The world must not be silent while Ukraine’s continue to suffer.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Russia’s latest large-scale attack on Ukraine. Targeting critical civilian infrastructure, and causing fatalities, including children’s. He urged global leaders, especially at the G20 summit, to take decisive action to put an end to Russia’s ongoing terror.
Also Read: PM Modi and Putin Discuss Ukraine Visit and Bilateral Progress
