News|Russia-Ukraine warCivilian casualties in Ukraine up sharply in 2025, UN monitor saysAn increase in the use of long-range weapons by Russia has led to more casualties in Ukraine, according to a United Nations monitor.
## Conflict Report: Civilian Impact in Ukraine
Conflict Report: Civilian Impact in Ukraine
The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has reported that 2025 was a particularly deadly year for civilians in Ukraine. The report states that civilian casualties reached at least 2,514 killed and 12,142 injured, marking a 31% increase compared to 2024 and a 70% increase compared to 2023.
The majority of verified casualties occurred in territories controlled by the Ukrainian government, resulting from attacks by Russian armed forces. The report highlights increased efforts by Russian forces to capture territory, which led to civilian casualties, infrastructure destruction, service interruptions, and new displacement waves in front-line areas.
Nearly two-thirds of all casualties in the previous year were in front-line regions, with a significant impact on older populations who remained in their villages. There was also a notable rise in casualties due to short-range drone attacks.
According to Danielle Bell, head of the UN monitoring mission, the increase in casualties was driven not only by intensified front-line hostilities but also by the expanded use of long-range weapons, which heightened risks for civilians across Ukraine.
The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has reported that 2025 was a particularly deadly year for civilians in Ukraine.
The UN has verified nearly 15,000 civilian deaths but notes that the actual number is likely higher due to verification challenges and restricted access to areas under Russian occupation.
The report also mentions that in Russia, Ukrainian armed forces' attacks reportedly resulted in 253 civilian deaths and 1,872 injuries, although these figures remain unverified due to limited access and available information.
Ongoing Conflict and Diplomatic Efforts
As the conflict enters its fifth year in February, territorial concessions remain a contentious issue. The United States' proposed peace plan, which includes significant territorial concessions by Ukraine, has been rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Diplomatic efforts to end the war have stalled, with recent proposals for European deployment in Ukraine being rejected by Russia.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
