Three children reportedly killed in Ukraine this week, in more devastating attacks – UNICEF
Statement by Regina De Dominicis, Regional Director for UNICEF Europe and Central Asia
KYIV/GENEVA (April 19, 2024) – “At least three children aged 6, 8 and 14 have reportedly been killed in yet another horrific attack in the Dnipro region earlier today. Our deepest sympathies are with the children’s families and their communities.
“Children were also among the reported casualties in a deadly attack in Chernihiv earlier this week, which reportedly damaged a hospital and educational institution. With waves of deadly attacks intensifying across the country, children continue to pay the highest price for this war.
“Nowhere is safe for children. Their homes, schools, hospitals and the civilian infrastructure they depend on to survive is being damaged and destroyed at an unprecedented scale.
“Across the country, more than 1,957 children have been killed or injured since the escalation of war nearly two years ago. As this number only includes the UN-verified reports, the actual number is likely higher.
“UNICEF is working on the ground across Ukraine, including in frontline areas, to respond to the immediate humanitarian needs of children and families including through providing lifesaving services and supplies, and mental health and psychosocial support in the aftermath of attacks.
“Children, their families and the infrastructure they rely on, must be protected at all times. Above all, the children of Ukraine need peace.”
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The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to pursue a more equitable world for every child. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more.
UNICEF USA advances the global mission of UNICEF by rallying the American public to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Together, we are working toward a world that upholds the rights of all children and helps every child thrive. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.
For more information please contact:
Jenna Buraczenski, UNICEF USA, (917) 720-1432, jburaczenski@unicefusa.org