Violations of children’s rights in Ukraine this year have sharply escalated, rising by 105 percent in the past year, according to UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
The UN has once again added Russia to its so-called list of shame – a roster of states and armed groups that commit grave violations against children during armed conflict. Other countries include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, Somalia, and Sudan.
“I am deeply concerned at the sharp increase in grave violations against children in Ukraine, particularly the killing and maiming of children, and attacks on schools and hospitals,” Guterres said.
Between 2024 and 2025, the UN documented 94 children killed and 577 injured. The report holds the Russian armed forces and affiliated groups responsible. It also recorded 559 attacks on schools and 303 attacks on hospitals.
The report confirms that many Ukrainian children who were taken to Russia are still missing.
“I strongly urge the Russian Federation to cooperate with the United Nations for the return of Ukrainian children and reunification of such children with their families and/or guardians,” Guterres said.
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