Since early May 2026, at least 70 civilians have lost their lives in Ukraine due to Russian assaults, with over 500 others sustaining injuries, according to a report from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU).
On May 5 alone, Russian strikes across multiple regions resulted in the deaths of 28 individuals and injuries to 194 more.
Daniel Bell, head of the mission, noted that many of the attacks occurred during the day in densely populated urban areas, contributing to the high number of civilian casualties.
“Many of the deceased and injured were engaged in routine activities—commuting to work, shopping, or simply walking. Under these circumstances, the harm to civilians is predictable,”
she stated.
The UN also highlighted that despite the ongoing instability, humanitarian convoys have successfully reached frontline communities, delivering essential supplies such as medicines, hygiene products, solar lamps, and construction materials.
Since the beginning of 2026, the mission, in collaboration with partners, has conducted 20 humanitarian operations, assisting nearly 22,000 Ukrainians living near the front lines.
The UN reports a significant rise in civilian casualties in Ukraine due to ongoing Russian attacks, with humanitarian efforts continuing despite the conflict. The situation remains dire as many civilians face daily risks in populated areas.