UNICEF reported a 50% increase in child deaths in Ukraine last year compared to 2023. It was noted that one in five children in the country lost a close relative or friend since the war between Russia and Ukraine began in February 2022. Toby Fricker, the Communication Director of UNICEF in Ukraine, stated that last year saw a 50% rise in child deaths compared to 2023 due to the ongoing war with Russia. Providing insights at the weekly press briefing of the UN Geneva Office online, Fricker highlighted that one in five children in Ukraine had lost a close relative or friend during this period. According to figures confirmed by the UN, Fricker mentioned that more than 2,520 children had been killed or injured since the start of the war, with the actual number likely even higher. Emphasizing the deteriorating situation in Ukraine, Fricker stated, “In 2024, child losses increased by 50% compared to 2023. Nowhere is safe. Schools, maternity wards, and children’s hospitals have been affected by attacks. According to the data verified by the UN, approximately 780 health facilities and over 1,600 schools have been damaged or destroyed.”