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Statement attributable to UNICEF Representative to Ukraine, Munir Mammadzade
KYIV, 26 May 2025 – “I am devastated by reports of three children killed in Zhytomyr, and at least 13 children injured in several areas as deadly attacks hit Ukraine in the last three days.
“Our deepest condolences are with their families and loved ones. UNICEF and partners continue to provide emergency support to communities affected by attacks.
“From January to April 2025, more than 220 children have been killed or injured in attacks according to UN-verified data – approximately 40 per cent higher than the number of child casualties reported during the same period last year. This includes the deadliest strike for children since the escalation of the war, when a ballistic missile detonated above a playground in Kryvyi Rih last month.
“As attacks continue with a pattern of increasing child casualties, we fear that more young lives will be devastated. This latest series of attacks has impacted multiple regions in country, including those far from the frontline – another brutal reminder that nowhere in Ukraine is safe for children.
“Ukraine's children have suffered for far too long. How many more futures must be stolen?
“The senseless violence and loss of young lives must stop. Attacks on civilian areas must end. Children must always be protected.
“Above all, children need an end to this war.”
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Joe English
UNICEF New York
Tel: +1 917 893 0692
Email: jenglish@unicef.org
Toby Fricker
Chief of Communication & Partnerships
UNICEF Ukraine
Email: tfricker@unicef.org
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UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, works to protect the rights of every child, everywhere, especially the most disadvantaged children and in the toughest places to reach. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive, and fulfil their potential.