Civilian deaths and injuries in Ukraine rose sharply in 2025, with more than 2,500 civilians killed and over 12,100 injured—a 31% increase compared to 2024 and 71% higher than in 2023. This escalation comes as humanitarian funding coverage fell to just 56% of projected needs, leaving millions of people who have endured four years of war increasingly vulnerable.
CARE warns that the prolonged stress of conflict, destruction, displacement, and constant threat of attack is taking a severe toll on mental health and wellbeing. Many civilians report enduring sleepless nights and persistent fear, with consequences including psychological distress and underreported cases of gender-based violence. Attacks on energy infrastructure have compounded hardships, leaving communities without electricity, heating, and water, particularly dangerous during winter months for older adults, children, and the sick.
The use of short-range drones has intensified, resulting in 577 civilian deaths and 3,288 injuries in 2025 alone. Families, like Tetiana’s in Zaporizhzhia, have lost homes and livelihoods, highlighting the ongoing human cost of the conflict. Those living near frontlines face enduring stress, with over 70% of adults in these areas reporting anxiety, depression, or severe stress. Many households struggle to meet basic needs, while over four million displaced people are returning to dangerous areas due to depleted savings and rising rent.
The humanitarian response is under severe strain as funding declines. With coverage dropping from 88% in 2022 to 56% in 2025, life-saving projects have been halted, leaving families without support for basic survival and long-term recovery. CARE emphasizes that emergency aid alone is insufficient, particularly for women and girls who face heightened risks of abuse and sexual violence. Sustained, survivor-centered support is needed to protect rights and enable recovery.
As civilian casualties continue to rise and funding gaps widen, the need for international commitment is urgent. Without sustained support, more families will be left without protection, assistance, or the means to rebuild their lives. Under International Humanitarian Law, civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected, and the normalization of civilian harm remains unacceptable.
