A United Nations official has called for an end to attacks following Russian assaults on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, which targeted a destroyed residential building on Wednesday night. Reports indicate that a dozen civilians, including a child, lost their lives during the overnight bombardment, with many others injured. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
According to Ukrainian authorities, approximately 700 Russian drones and 19 ballistic missiles, along with additional cruise missiles, were launched over the preceding day and night. While Ukraine’s air defense systems successfully intercepted most of the drones and some missiles, those that reached their targets struck residential areas in Odesa, Kyiv, and Dnipro. The attacks resulted in the death of a 12-year-old child and injuries to around 100 people.
The UN official stated, “Once again, families have seen their homes damaged or destroyed in an instant. Others spent the night in shelters or trying to comfort their children.” Such attacks have become a part of daily life for communities far from the front lines. Residents in cities like Dnipro have endured several nights of intense shelling, while in Odesa, attacks have become an almost daily threat.
“We should not have to count civilian casualties every day. This cycle of violence against those who simply want to live must stop,” the official added.
Children Face Dramatically Increased Risks
Life for children in Ukraine has become significantly more perilous in recent weeks. Verified data from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine shows a 65% increase in child casualties in March alone, with 89 children killed or injured in attacks.
UNICEF, the UN’s children’s agency, confirmed on Thursday that at least 3,452 children have been killed or injured in Ukraine since the full-scale Russian invasion began in February 2022. However, these figures represent only verified cases, suggesting the actual numbers are likely much higher.
Throughout the conflict, which has lasted over four years, children have been repeatedly forced to flee their homes. A recent UNICEF survey revealed that one in three young people aged 15-19 reported being relocated at least twice, citing safety as the primary reason for displacement.
Anne-Claire Dufay, UNICEF Representative in Ukraine, commented, “No child in the country is safe. Children continue to live under the constant threat of attacks, wherever they are.”
