UN reports 15,280 Ukrainian civilians killed or injured in 2026, a 55% rise from 2025

The United Nations reports that 15,280 Ukrainian civilians were killed or injured in the first eight months of 2026, a 55% increase from the same period in 2025, with attacks intensifying weekly. Russian strikes hit Kyiv's North Bridge during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit, while a missile attack on Kharkiv killed one and wounded six. Merz pledged €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for energy support, though Taurus missiles remain undelivered. UN officials described the conflict as a growing human rights catastrophe, citing attacks on energy infrastructure, sexual violence, and widespread civilian fear. Russia stated it will fight for even 0.01% of Donetsk territory, while the US proposed trilateral talks by late October.