First Thing: Ukrainian civilian casualties rose by 26% in 2025, researchers say
Monday, February 16, 2026
AI Disclaimer: This platform utilizes AI to summarize breaking news and may contain inaccuracies or errors. As the platform grows, we intend to add more human oversight and pursue justice while minimizing AI involvement.
Ukrainian civilian casualties jumped 26% in 2025 due to increased Russian military targeting of cities and infrastructure, according to the global conflict monitoring group AOAV, with executive director Iain Overton citing a "break" in respect for proportionality in war.
The AOAV report highlights a disturbing trend of rising civilian harm, with Overton stating that "Ukraine fits a wider collapse of restraint that is now visible across multiple wars", sparking concerns about the erosion of international humanitarian law.
The 26% increase in civilian casualties in 2025 underscores the urgent need for accountability and protection of civilians in conflict zones, with AOAV's findings serving as a stark reminder of the devastating human cost of war, as reported by The Guardian US.
