Senior UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine, Matthias Schmale, has roundly condemned the latest wave of Russian attacks on civilians in Dnipro, Kyiv, and Odesa. Speaking from Dnipro, where a residential building was hit, Schmale issued a plea to stop the attacks that have killed and injured scores of civilians.
A dozen residents, including a child, were reported killed in recent overnight bombings, with rescue efforts ongoing. Ukrainian officials stated nearly 700 Russian drones and numerous missiles were launched, with many targeting the capital. Despite Ukrainian air defenses intercepting most, those that penetrated hit residential buildings.
"Once more, families have seen their homes damaged or destroyed in an instant," said Schmale. "This cycle of violence against those who are simply trying to live their lives must stop."
The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission reported a 65 percent increase in child casualties in March alone. UNICEF confirmed at least 3,452 children have been killed or injured since February 2022, noting the true number is likely higher. "No child is safe in the country," stated Anne-Claire Dufay, UNICEF Representative to Ukraine.