- Ukraine’s health care sector experienced a 20% surge in attacks in 2025, exacerbating an already fragile system.
- The World Health Organization has documented over 2,800 attacks on health care in Ukraine since the full-scale war began in 2022.
- Attacks on health care facilities, ambulances, and medical warehouses have resulted in the destruction of critical infrastructure and disrupted supply chains.
- Millions of Ukrainians lack access to essential health services due to the ongoing conflict and resulting health care disruptions.
- Health workers in Ukraine continue to risk their lives to provide medical care to those in need despite the dire circumstances.
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, with a nearly 20% increase compared to 2024. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a significant surge in attacks on health care facilities, ambulances, and medical warehouses, resulting in a substantial strain on the country’s already fragile health care system. The attacks have occurred across various regions, with the majority taking place in the eastern and southern parts of the country.
Devastating Impact on Health Care
Since the beginning of the full-scale war on 24 February 2022, the WHO has documented at least 2881 attacks on health care in Ukraine, affecting health workers, facilities, ambulances, and medical warehouses. These attacks have resulted in the destruction of critical infrastructure, including hospitals, clinics, and medical supply chains, leaving millions of people without access to essential health services. The immediate impact of these attacks has been devastating, with many health workers risking their lives to provide medical care to those in need.
Background and Context
Health services in Ukraine are under intense pressure on two fronts: direct attacks on health care facilities and the cascading effects of strikes on civilian infrastructure, including thermal power plants that undermine the ability to provide basic services. The ongoing conflict has disrupted supply chains, leading to shortages of essential medicines and equipment, further exacerbating the crisis. The WHO and other humanitarian organizations have been working to support Ukraine’s health care system, but the scale of the crisis requires a sustained and coordinated response.
What to Watch
As the situation continues to unfold, the next expected developments will be closely monitored by the international community. The WHO and other organizations will be watching for any signs of further escalation, including increased attacks on health care facilities and personnel. Additionally, the response of the international community, including the provision of humanitarian aid and support to Ukraine’s health care system, will be critical in mitigating the impact of the crisis and ensuring that those affected receive the medical care they need. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the crisis and the ability of Ukraine’s health care system to cope with the ongoing threats it faces.