Key facts
- The UN Human Rights Office documented 15,280 civilian casualties in Ukraine in the first eight months of 2026.
- Civilian casualties in Ukraine rose 55% in the first eight months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
- Nearly 2,500 civilians were killed or injured by Russian aerial glide bombs on the frontlines in eight months, a 62% increase from last year.
- 89% of verified conflict-related sexual violence cases against civilians and POWs between Feb. 2022 and July 2026 were attributed to Russian forces.
- High Commissioner Volker Turk urged states with influence over Russia to push for peace.
The UN Human Rights Office has documented a significant increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine during the first eight months of 2026, with over 15,000 individuals killed or injured. High Commissioner Volker Turk informed the Human Rights Council in Geneva on October 2 that the weekly average of civilian deaths and injuries exceeded 400, marking a 55% rise from the same period in 2025.
Turk highlighted that Russia's intensified attacks on civilian infrastructure, including schools, medical centers, apartment buildings, and energy facilities, are contributing to the growing toll. He specifically noted a 62% increase in civilian casualties from Russian aerial glide bombs on the frontlines over the eight-month period.
The report also detailed "shocking" levels of conflict-related sexual violence, with 89% of verified cases between February 2022 and July 2026 attributed to Russian forces. Turk criticized Russia's leadership for prioritizing a militarized economy over civilian needs and urged states with influence to push for peace.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha echoed Turk's call for accountability and action, stating that Russia's actions violate the principles of the UN Charter. The UN office also expressed concern over human rights violations against foreign nationals recruited by Russia for the war effort.