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Ukraine: UNICEF records 40% rise in children killed in war

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Statistics released by UNICEF have shown a 40% rise in the number of children killed in Ukraine compared to the same period last year. So far this year, thirty-four children have died as a result of hostilities with the youngest victim just two months old.

Speaking during a visit to Ukraine, UNICEF’s Regina De Dominicis noted the war’s widening impact on the country’s children. “I am troubled to see that attacks across the country continue, destroying schools, health facilities and residential buildings,” she said. “Nowhere is safe for children.”

According to UN data, 600 children have been killed since Russia escalated the conflict in 2022, and over 1,350 injured. However, official sources caution that the true figure is likely to be significantly higher.

The indiscriminate nature of Russian strikes has compounded the situation further. In the first quarter of 2024, 36 health facilities and 140 educational facilities were recorded as either being damaged or destroyed. Furthermore, it is estimated that almost half of Ukraine’s school-aged children are currently missing out on lessons with nearly a million unable to attend classes due to safety fears.

In addition, UNICEF says that disrupted power and water supplies continue to further impact their lives and wellbeing.
Source: UN
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