Russia-Ukraine war: First half of 2026 sees sharp rise in civilian casualties
Summary
The United Nations reported a 37 percent rise in civilian deaths and injuries in the Russia-Ukraine war during the first half of 2026. Both Russia and Ukraine have increased attacks on each other's infrastructure, causing more harm to civilians, while peace talks remain stalled.Key Facts
- In the first six months of 2026, 1,396 civilians were killed and 7,978 injured in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- This number represents a 37% increase in civilian casualties compared to the same period in 2025.
- Both Moscow and Kyiv deny intentionally targeting civilians but have stepped up air and missile strikes.
- The UN considers attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure a violation of international humanitarian law and possible war crimes.
- Russia attacked Ukraine’s capital heavily in summer 2026, with June being the deadliest month for Ukrainian civilians since 2022.
- Ukraine increased long-range strikes on Russian infrastructure, including oil depots and warehouses.
- A Ukrainian drone strike on warehouses linked to Russia's biggest online retailer killed eight workers; Ukraine alleges the site supplied parts for military drones.
- US-led peace talks to end the nearly five-year conflict have not made progress recently.
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