UN names deadliest weapon for civilians in Ukraine
Short-range drones have become the deadliest weapon for civilians in Ukraine over the past month. The number of casualties from UAV attacks near the front line continues to rise, according to a report by the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU).
Casualty statistics for March
According to observers, in March 2026, the number of civilian casualties increased by 49% compared to February. In total, at least 211 people were killed during the month, while another 1,206 were injured.
Short-range UAVs became the second leading cause of civilian losses, leaving 66 dead and 369 injured. In areas near the front line, drones remain the primary threat to civilians.
Situation in frontline areas
Daily strikes by drones, artillery, and aerial bombs accounted for 63% of all casualties in March. Elderly people were the most affected, making up 50% of those killed and 40% of the injured.
The geography of casualties spans 19 regions of Ukraine as well as the city of Kyiv. At the same time, 97% of all civilian deaths and injuries were recorded in areas controlled by the Ukrainian government.
Trends compared to last year
According to the UN, in the first quarter of 2026, 556 people were killed in Ukraine, and 2,731 were injured.
These figures are 20% higher than during the same period in 2025, indicating the continued high intensity of hostilities and risks for civilians.
UN position on the war in Ukraine
The UN previously reported that Russia is trying to derail the peace process by putting forward deliberately unrealistic ultimatums, despite lacking significant strategic successes on the battlefield.
The United Nations has also expressed concern over child mortality in Ukraine. According to recent reports, mortality rates among children under five in the country are three times higher than in some other nations, while the global decline in this indicator has significantly slowed.
