The United Nations Security Council convened on July 27, 2025, to discuss the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, as presented by Joyce Nsuya, a senior UN official. The meeting highlighted the alarming deterioration of the situation since the last update on June 20, with renewed missile and drone strikes causing significant civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure across multiple regions.

Nsuya reported that civilian harm has surged, with nearly 50% more casualties recorded in 2025 compared to the previous year. Recent attacks in urban centers such as Cherkhasi, Kharkiv, and Odessa resulted in the deaths of five civilians and injuries to 93 others, including 11 children. The violence has spread even to areas previously considered safe, such as the Ivano Frankivsk region, which experienced its largest attack since the war escalated in 2022.

The UN official emphasized the dire humanitarian needs, stating that approximately 13 million people require assistance, yet funding shortages severely limit the reach of aid organizations. Local women-led groups, crucial for supporting displaced women and girls, are scaling back operations due to financial constraints, leaving many without necessary protection.

Displacement continues to rise, with over 26,000 people fleeing hostilities since April. Currently, 3.7 million people remain displaced within Ukraine, and nearly 6 million have sought refuge abroad. Nsuya also noted unverified reports of civilian casualties and infrastructure damage in Russian regions bordering Ukraine.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for humanitarian access and adherence to international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the use of anti-personnel mines. Nsuya expressed concern over Ukraine's recent decision to withdraw from the anti-personnel mine ban convention, urging all states to uphold humanitarian disarmament treaties.

Despite the challenges, humanitarian partners have reached over 3.6 million people with essential services since January. However, access remains precarious, particularly in conflict-affected regions like Kherson and Donetsk. The UN's 2025 humanitarian response plan has only received 34% of the required $2.6 billion, leading to cuts in vital programs just as needs are escalating.

As winter approaches, the UN has launched a winter response plan aimed at assisting 1.7 million people with heating support, winter clothing, and emergency energy solutions. Nsuya called on member states to act swiftly to ensure that emergency supplies are in place before the harsh winter conditions exacerbate the crisis.

In conclusion, Nsuya delivered three urgent messages: the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure must be prioritized, humanitarian access must be facilitated, and immediate support is essential to address the growing needs of the Ukrainian population. The ongoing conflict continues to inflict profound suffering, and the resilience of civilians is being tested to its limits.