July becomes deadliest month for Ukrainian civilians since Russia’s full-scale war begins – UN Deputy Chief

The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General warned that July marked the deadliest month for Ukrainian civilians since Russia's full-scale invasion began, with at least 437 deaths and over 2,600 injuries. Fletcher noted a 37% increase in civilian casualties compared to the same period last year, attributing this surge to the rise in drone attacks, which have surged by 60% this year.

He emphasized that FPV drones, in particular, often result in civilian casualties. Fletcher personally witnessed the aftermath of such attacks on civilians in Kherson, where 70% of patients at a local hospital were treated for blast injuries, many of which were inflicted by FPV drone strikes. In the first half of the year, humanitarian organizations reached more than 3 million people in Ukraine.

To prepare for the upcoming winter, the UN initiated a $358 million response plan to aid 2 million individuals. Fletcher expressed grave concerns over the conflict's escalation in the Black Sea, which could have far-reaching humanitarian ramifications. He urged Security Council members to bolster the protection of international humanitarian law, equip humanitarian workers for the winter, and engage with nations and corporations engaged in the development and deployment of advanced military technologies.

Fletcher cautioned that "technology is outpacing accountability," stressing the urgent need to safeguard civilians, provide relief, and most importantly, end the war.