UN condemns overnight attack on Ukraine that damaged civilian infrastructure

Spokesperson Gabriel Vaniti told reporters the UN had "seen that another large scale overnight Russian attack struck Ukraine causing civilian casualties and widespread disruption to electricity, heating, and water supplies." He said the attack occurred as temperatures fell to around minus 10 degrees Celsius and that, in Kyiv, a health worker was killed and other health workers and rescuers were injured while helping victims.

Vaniti said the World Health Organization has reported attacks on health care in Ukraine since the start of the year, noting the broader toll on medical services and humanitarian operations. "Humanitarian organizations are continuing to support people in Kyiv and other impacted cities and towns, providing emergency assistance and monitoring urgent needs," he said, emphasizing challenges posed by cold weather.

The UN spokesperson reiterated condemnation of attacks on civilian infrastructure and called for the protection of civilians. The briefing did not provide new battlefield details or attribute responsibility beyond the description of a Russian strike; the UN cited local authorities and WHO reporting for casualty and damage information.

The UN said humanitarian partners remain active on the ground and are monitoring needs, but the briefing did not announce new UN-led operations or funding for Ukraine.