Ukraine
Grave Violations
- 1,899 grave violations against 781 children (447 boys, 334 girls).
- 24 children (22 boys, 2 girls) were used as informants to share information on the Ukrainian military.
- 35 children (32 boys, 3 girls) were detained for alleged association with parties to conflict
- Killing (94) and maiming (659) of 753 children (425 boys, 328 girls)
- Rape (2) and other forms of sexual violence (6) perpetrated against 4 girls
- Attacks on schools (442) and hospitals (199)
- 473 incidents of the denial of humanitarian access
Current situation
In 2025, several attacks including the use of explosive weapons with wide-area effect, had a devastating impact on children, including the deadliest verified incidents for children since the escalation of the conflict in 2022. Grave violations remained high, with particular concern over rising incidents of killing and maiming, largely driven by intensified missile and long-range drone attacks. Similarly, attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities, have surged compared with 2024, severely affecting children, as power cuts limit access to electricity, water, and heating, as well as to online learning which the ongoing hostilities have made necessary. The Government of Ukraine continued implementing its prevention plan throughout this period.
Developments and Concerns
Alarmed by the high number of grave violations in Ukraine due to the conduct of hostilities, including the use of explosive weapons and drones in populated areas, and by attacks on civilian objects, including schools and hospitals.
Urge Ukraine to reverse its decision to suspend the operation of the Ottawa Convention and to prioritize child protection training for armed and security forces.
Call upon the Government of Ukraine to prevent the military use of hospitals and minimize administrative impediments impacting humanitarian operations.
Alarmed by the grave violations attributed to the Russian armed forces, including an increase in killing and maiming, primarily due to long-range attacks reaching populated areas far from the frontline, and continued attacks on schools and hospitals, and protected persons.
Concern regarding the use of children by the Russian Federation or affiliated actors for surveillance, arson attacks, and other conflict-related activities, as well as reports of attempted use by Ukraine or affiliated actors.
Concern regarding the detention of children, including related to online recruitment and use.
Welcome the reports of the return and reintegration of over 740 children from the Russian Federation and territories of Ukraine temporarily occupied by the Russian Federation and commend the efforts of those involved.
Listen to my voice...
