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Short-Range Drones Emerge as Deadliest Weapon for Civilians Near Frontlines, UN Says
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The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has identified short-range drones as the most lethal weapon for civilians living near the frontlines over the past month.
The number of casualties resulting from these unmanned aerial vehicle attacks continues to climb in areas close to the active fighting, according to the report from the monitoring mission on April 10.
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Civilian casualties in March 2026 increased by 49% compared to February. Observers documented the deaths of at least 211 people, while another 1,206 individuals suffered injuries during the same period.
Short-range drones have become the second leading cause of losses among the population. These weapons were responsible for 66 deaths and 369 injuries in March. In regions near the frontline, drones remain the primary threat to residents.
Combined strikes involving drones, artillery, and aerial bombs accounted for 63% of all victims in March. The elderly are the most affected by these attacks, making up 50% of the deceased and 40% of the injured.
The geography of these incidents spans 19 regions of Ukraine and the city of Kyiv. The report notes that 97% of all cases involving civilian death or injury occurred in territories controlled by the Ukrainian government.
During the first quarter of 2026, 556 people were killed and 2,731 were injured in Ukraine. These figures are 20% higher than those recorded during the same period in 2025.
This data indicates that the high intensity of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the associated risks for civilians persist.
The United Nations previously stated that Russia is attempting to disrupt the peace process by presenting unrealistic ultimatums. These actions continue despite the absence of significant strategic successes on the battlefield.
On March 24, 2026, Russian forces launched a large-scale drone assault that targeted several cities across western and central Ukraine, specifically aiming at civilian infrastructure.
According to local authorities, the attack caused explosions in Ivano-Frankivsk and Vinnytsia, resulting in at least two confirmed fatalities in the Ivano-Frankivsk city center.
Officials reported that Moscow had prepared the resources for this prolonged operation in advance, leading to a nationwide wave of strikes that involved more than 400 drones and missiles.
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