Humanity & Inclusion Condemns the Massive Attacks Across Ukraine; Calls for Protection of Civilians and First Responders

On the night of April 16, Ukraine was subjected to a massive, combined assault involving hundreds of drones and missiles.

At least 18 civilians were killed, including children, and more than 80 were injured across Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipro, Kharkiv, and Mykolaiv. Residential buildings, port facilities, and railway assets were damaged or destroyed. Emergency responders rushing to assist victims were also injured, underscoring the growing risks faced by those who provide life-saving aid.

Indiscriminate bombing and shelling in populated areas, randomly targeting civilians and civilian facilities, have become a systematic pattern in Ukraine. Such attacks are incompatible with International Humanitarian Law. The consequences for civilians' lives, health, and dignity are catastrophic. Survivors lose their homes, face lifelong injuries, have disrupted access to healthcare, and have diminished livelihoods.

According to local authorities in Russia, civilian casualties were also reported on April 16 in Tuapse. HI notes that, due to the absence of independent observers’ access to Russian territory, full verification of civilian casualty data there remains impossible.

Civilians are not targets. Both parties must protect civilians from the consequences of conflict. We urge the international community to:

• Publicly condemn such attacks.
• Increase diplomatic pressure to protect civilians.
• Support efforts to document the consequences and aid those impacted, including injured rescuers and humanitarian workers.

Humanity & Inclusion continues to stand with affected communities, delivering support and advocating for their rights. Together, we continue the fight for a safer present and a future free from explosive weapons.

Spokespersons are available for interviews upon request.