Toronto, ON, August 6, 2026 – In response to the latest wave of drone and missile strikes in Ukraine, which have killed at least 17 people and damaged civilian infrastructure, including homes and humanitarian warehouses, Sven Coppens, Director of Plan International's Ukraine Response, said:

“The latest attacks point to an increasingly dangerous environment for civilians in Ukraine. Powerful ballistic missiles, which travel at extremely high speeds and are difficult to intercept, are being used more frequently, while the ability to protect civilians from them is diminishing.

We observe that multiple missiles are being launched at the same area within a short period of time, leaving civilians, especially children, with less time to reach safety and placing greater pressure on already stretched air defence systems.

None of the 28 missiles launched during the latest attack were intercepted. Civilians were killed not only in their homes, but while working, waiting for public transport and travelling home.

At the same time, drones are increasingly being used in places and communities that put civilians directly at risk. Recent footage from Kherson showed a drone pursuing a street vendor as he tried to escape before striking him.

No place feels safe anymore. In Ukraine, ordinary activities such as travelling to work, waiting for transport, selling food or simply walking outside have become potentially deadly.

The impact of strikes extends far beyond the places that are directly hit. When railway lines, businesses, warehouses and other essential infrastructure are damaged, it becomes harder for families to earn income, access essential services, and recover between attacks.

For children, especially girls, each new attack adds to the pressure created by the last. They cannot recover when their education, routines and family support systems are repeatedly disrupted. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected, and the international community must do more to keep them safe as the threats they face continue to grow.”

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Children never start wars, but they suffer the most. To support children affected by war in Ukraine and other global crises, visit plancanada.ca/donate/children-in-crisis.

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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 with and for children for almost 90 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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