The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) has reported that June 2025 saw the highest number of civilian casualties in the country in three years. At least 232 civilians were killed and 1,343 injured last month alone, amid a dramatic increase in Russian missile and drone strikes.

The escalation marks a tenfold rise in aerial assaults compared to June 2024. At least 16 regions—including the capital Kyiv—recorded civilian deaths or injuries. “Civilians across Ukraine are facing levels of suffering we have not seen in over three years,” said HRMMU Chief Danielle Bell.

First Half Of 2025 Sees Sharp Increase In Casualties

In total, 6,754 civilian casualties were recorded in the first six months of 2025, marking a 54% increase over the same period last year. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, at least 13,580 civilians have been killed and more than 34,000 injured.

The figures reflect a broader deterioration in Ukraine’s security environment. Just days before the UN report, Ukraine experienced one of its largest-ever drone attacks, with 728 Shahed drones launched in a single night.

UN Calls For Protection Of Civilians

The HRMMU reiterated its call for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and to take immediate steps to protect civilians. Human rights monitors emphasized that the widespread and indiscriminate nature of the recent attacks underscores the urgent need for stronger international accountability mechanisms.

As the war drags on into its third year, humanitarian agencies continue to warn of the devastating impact on Ukraine’s civilian population and infrastructure.