The UN Security Council heard stark warnings Wednesday as Russia launched over 1,500 drones and missiles into Ukraine in a 48-hour period. The bombardment killed 24 civilians in Kyiv alone.
Last month saw the highest civilian casualty count since July 2025: at least 238 dead, 1,404 wounded. The deadliest single attack flattened a nine-story apartment block in the capital.
Ukrainian strikes inside Russia are also taking a toll. Over the weekend, four people died in attacks including one on Moscow; four more were killed in Ryazan on May 15.
Humanitarian workers are increasingly in the crosshairs. Two UN convoys marked with clear UN insignia were struck by drones on May 12 and 14. Three aid workers have been killed this year, ten wounded. One UN vehicle delivering supplies near Kherson was severely damaged.
OCHA’s Edem Wosornu told the Council: “The weapons being deployed-cheap and deadly-are rapidly changing what it means to deliver life-saving assistance.”
A three-day ceasefire brokered by the US from May 9-11 saw reported violations on both sides. Shortly after it expired, Russia escalated attacks.
The two sides did exchange 205 prisoners each on May 15 as part of a broader deal for 2,000 POWs. The UN urged direct talks to resume without delay.
UN officials also expressed ongoing concern for Ukrainian children deported or forcibly transferred to Russia, calling for consistent engagement to secure their return.