UN Reports Civilian Casualties from Strikes in Kyiv and Western Ukraine Regions

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Ukraine dominated discussions during the United Nations Daily Press Briefing on July 21, 2025. As violence escalates in both regions, the UN is grappling with the urgent need to protect civilians and deliver humanitarian aid.

In Gaza, recent airstrikes have raised significant concerns for the safety of UN staff and the local population. Despite an evacuation order, UN personnel are remaining in the area to continue their critical work. The Secretary-General has emphasized the responsibility of all parties to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers, who are risking their lives to provide assistance amidst the conflict. The UN is currently assessing the situation and the extent of damage to its facilities, which have reportedly suffered from incendiary devices and shrapnel.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine, the situation remains dire as recent attacks have impacted civilian areas, including schools and health facilities. The Ivano-Frankivsk region, previously less affected, experienced its largest assault since the war escalated in 2022. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing to provide shelter and essential supplies to those displaced by the violence, particularly in cities like Odessa and Kyiv.

The briefing also touched on the cholera outbreak in Sudan, with limited access to affected areas complicating the UN's response efforts. The Secretary-General continues to call for a ceasefire in Gaza and the delivery of humanitarian aid to meet the urgent needs of the population.

As the UN navigates these complex crises, the focus remains on protecting civilians and ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. The international community's response and cooperation will be crucial in addressing these pressing humanitarian challenges.