Human Lives Human Rights: A senior UN official disclosed that over 10,000 civilians have lost their lives, and 18,500 others have sustained injuries since the commencement of Russia’s war in Ukraine in February 2022. The figures were obtained from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
During a UN Security Council meeting addressing the maintenance of peace and security in Ukraine, Miroslav Jenca, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, and the Americas, highlighted the devastating toll, noting that among the victims, hundreds are children. Expressing deep concern, he stated, “The full toll of this war is likely to be much greater, as there is no sign of an end to the violence.” Jenca warned of potential escalation in attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure during the upcoming colder season.
Anticipating dire consequences for millions of Ukrainians entering the second wartime winter, Jenca emphasized the humanitarian crisis. He raised alarm over the disregard for international law in regions of Ukraine under Russian control, particularly denouncing the legitimacy of “so-called” elections organized by Russian officials.
“Policies aimed at forcefully changing or imposing institutions and identities have far-reaching consequences and are unacceptable,” Jenca asserted, urging the international community to “sustain its focus” on Ukraine and bring an end to the suffering inflicted by the ongoing war.
