UN denounces attacks by both Russia and Ukraine with numerous civilian victims

The UN Human Rights Office has warned of a new escalation in the war between Ukraine and Russia, denouncing recent attacks by both sides that resulted in numerous civilian casualties, including deaths and injuries. The office highlighted specific incidents that underscore the ongoing human cost of the conflict.

According to the UN, Russia launched an attack on a residential building in Kyiv between May 13 and 14, killing 24 people and injuring dozens. In response, Ukraine's armed forces reportedly conducted a "significant attack" on an educational complex in Starobilsk, a Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia, while it was in operation. This strike resulted in numerous civilian deaths, including students and 18 women, though the total number of victims was not specified.

Volker Türk, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed concern over a potential worsening of the conflict amid Russia's threats to intensify attacks. He urged both parties to return to negotiations and exercise restraint to end the suffering. The UN Human Rights Office also reported a 21% increase in civilian deaths and injuries in Ukraine during the first four months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, with 815 killed and 4,174 injured in 2026.

The High Commissioner stressed that international humanitarian law mandates all parties to take possible precautions to protect civilians, emphasizing that this is a legal obligation, not merely a suggestion. Failure to comply carries legal responsibility for those involved.