Toronto, ON, April 25, 2025 – In the early hours of April 24, 2025, a massive missile and drone attack was launched on Ukraine’s capital Kyiv. Reports say the attack, which lasted around 11 hours, killed at least 12 people – including children and a pregnant woman – and injured more than 90. Four other regions across Ukraine were also targeted by missiles in what is described as one of the most devastating air assaults on the country since February 2022.

Sven Coppens, Ukraine Refugee Crisis Response Director at Plan International, has shared the following statement:

“These attacks in Kyiv and across Ukraine saw civilians, including children, targeted and killed in their homes while they slept.

“This is a contravention of International Humanitarian Law and Plan International calls for an immediate end to all violations, including those that target children.

“The international community, including all UN Security Council member states, has obligations to abide by the law and to demonstrate leadership to prevent grave violations against children – not to actively target them as they lie in bed.

“The killing and injury of civilians is horrifying and for survivors, witnesses and those living in a conflict zone, the psychological wounds are deep.

“Our message is clear: all young people must have the opportunity to grow up free from fear, loss, and violence. They must be able to live.

“All parties to conflict must uphold international humanitarian law, human rights, and the protection of civilians.”

About Plan International Canada

Plan International Canada is a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls. Plan International has been building powerful partnerships for children for over 85 years and is now active in more than 80 countries.

We stand with children, especially girls, wherever they are oppressed, exploited, left behind or not equally valued. We’re determined optimists and will continue to persevere until we are all equal.

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