Recent airstrikes by Russian forces have led to a significant increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine, with May 2026 marking the highest monthly toll in four years. This information was presented by Mohamed Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific, during a United Nations Security Council meeting.
According to data from the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, at least 274 civilians were killed and 1,763 injured in Ukraine during May. Khiari noted that these figures represent the most severe monthly casualties since April 2022.
Since the onset of the full-scale war, the UN has confirmed the deaths of at least 16,126 civilians, including 796 children. Additionally, 46,590 civilians have sustained injuries, with 2,835 being minors. However, Khiari indicated that the actual numbers could be considerably higher.
During his remarks, Khiari also referenced a combined strike by Russia on June 17, which resulted in damage to sites of historical and cultural significance. Notably, the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was targeted, and prior to that, a drone attack struck the Kharkiv Art Museum.
UNESCO reports that over 530 cultural sites in Ukraine have been damaged since the beginning of the full-scale invasion by Russia.
Khiari further addressed the situation in Russia and the occupied territories of Ukraine, including Crimea. He urged for de-escalation and an immediate resumption of diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a complete ceasefire and lasting peace in accordance with the UN Charter, international law, and adopted resolutions.
The UN has reported a record number of civilian casualties in Ukraine for May 2026, as airstrikes by Russian forces intensify. The Assistant Secretary-General emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to restore peace.