From the start of the conflict until May 21, 2023, a total of 24,012 civilian casualties were recorded, comprising 8,895 fatalities and 15,117 injuries.

The OHCHR has revealed that 19,324 of these casualties, involving 6,910 deaths and 12,414 injuries, occurred in territories under the control of the Ukrainian Government at the time of the incidents. The Donetsk and Luhansk regions, in particular, have borne the brunt, with 9,766 casualties recorded, including 4,051 deaths and 5,715 injuries. Other regions across the country witnessed 9,558 casualties, resulting in 2,859 fatalities and 6,699 injuries.

Shockingly, 4,688 casualties, encompassing 1,985 deaths and 2,703 injuries, took place in territories occupied by the Russian Federation during the time of the incidents. In the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, 3,154 casualties were documented, including 705 deaths and 2,449 injuries. Furthermore, 1,486 casualties occurred in other regions, with 1,242 deaths and 244 injuries.

The OHCHR emphasizes that these figures likely underestimate the true extent of the humanitarian crisis, as information from certain locations with intense hostilities has been delayed and numerous reports are yet to be verified. Concerns have been raised specifically about Mariupol in the Donetsk region, as well as Lysychansk, Popasna, and Sievierodonetsk in the Luhansk region. Allegations of numerous civilian casualties have been made in these areas, indicating the gravity of the situation.

As the conflict in Ukraine persists, the international community is urged to prioritize efforts to mitigate civilian harm and find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. The OHCHR's report serves as a stark reminder of the devastating toll on innocent lives and highlights the urgent need for swift action to protect civilians caught in the crossfire. (ILKHA)