- Ukraine has seen a 20% increase in attacks on healthcare in 2025, exacerbating its fragile health system.
- The World Health Organization has documented over 2,800 attacks on healthcare since the start of the full-scale war in 2022.
- Attacks on healthcare facilities and workers have disrupted essential health services, including emergency care and disease prevention programs.
- The ongoing conflict has led to a shortage of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel in Ukraine.
- Healthcare workers in Ukraine have been risking their lives to provide medical care to those in need.
As Ukraine enters the fifth year of full-scale war, its people have endured the highest number of attacks on their health care in 2025 – increasing by nearly 20% compared to 2024. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a significant surge in attacks on healthcare facilities, workers, and equipment, exacerbating the country’s already fragile health system. The ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread destruction, displacement, and human suffering, with the healthcare sector bearing the brunt of the violence.
Attacks on Healthcare: A Growing Concern
Since the beginning of the full-scale war on 24 February 2022, WHO has documented at least 2881 attacks on health care in Ukraine, affecting health workers, facilities, ambulances, and medical warehouses. These attacks have not only damaged infrastructure but also disrupted essential health services, including emergency care, surgical services, and disease prevention programs. The immediate impact of these attacks has been devastating, with many healthcare workers risking their lives to provide medical care to those in need.
Context and Background
Health services are under intense pressure in two fronts: direct attacks on health care, and the cascading effects of strikes on civilian infrastructure, including thermal power plants that undermine the ability to provide healthcare services. The conflict has also led to a shortage of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel, further straining the healthcare system. As the war drags on, the Ukrainian people are facing unprecedented challenges in accessing basic healthcare services, including maternal and child care, vaccination programs, and treatment for chronic diseases.
What to Watch
As the situation continues to deteriorate, the international community is watching with concern, and next expected developments include increased humanitarian aid, diplomatic efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, and support for rebuilding Ukraine’s healthcare infrastructure. The WHO and other international organizations are working closely with Ukrainian authorities to provide emergency assistance, including medical supplies, equipment, and personnel, to mitigate the impact of the conflict on the healthcare sector.