Ukraine’s Science Under Fire: Russia Is Targeting Knowledge, People and the Future

Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine has brought to light an often overlooked aspect: the deliberate destruction of the country’s scientific infrastructure and human capital. On September 28, 2026, a Russian attack targeted the historic Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine building in central Kyiv, resulting in casualties including scientists Valerii Kotenko and Natalia Bukalo.

As of October 1, 2026, the public "My Science" project recorded at least 180 Ukrainian scientists killed during the conflict. The Dobrobut medical center on Antonovycha Street was also hit, with its upper floors suffering a fire. Nana Voitenko, a neuroscientist and rector of the academy, expressed determination to rebuild and continue education.

On September 30, a Russian drone struck the Institute for Nuclear Research, damaging the VVR-M research reactor and causing a fire. State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine labeled the attack as an egregious violation of nuclear safety and a war crime. Ukrainian science communicator Anton Senenko stated that Russia is targeting science because it can, emphasizing that modern warfare relies heavily on scientific knowledge and technology.

Despite the devastation, Ukrainian scientists persist, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. However, rebuilding scientific infrastructure, replacing destroyed equipment, and maintaining a conducive environment for research are crucial to sustaining Ukraine's scientific capabilities and its capacity to develop solutions for survival, defense, and rebuilding.