Russia's drone warfare: UN highlights civilian toll in Ukraine
Devastating UN report. Observers monitoring human rights compliance in war have noted that Russian drones are increasingly targeting civilians. This is yet another instance where the UN expresses concerns about the application of international humanitarian law by Russian military forces.
The report from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) was developed in January 2025. Observers analyzed the threats faced by Ukrainian civilians due to military operations.
It turns out that Russian drones are the most frequent threat to civilians. According to the UN report, FPV drones have caused more civilian casualties in Ukraine than any other Russian weapon.
Russians attack civilians with drones. The UN report leaves no illusions
UN observers noted that in January 2025, at least 139 civilians were killed, and 738 people were injured. The majority of casualties were caused by drone attacks. The Russian drone attacks resulted in the deaths of 38 people (27%) and injuries to 223 people (30%).
According to the report, Russians deliberately drop explosives on Ukrainian civilians in cars, homes, and on pedestrians.
Short-range drones now pose one of the deadliest threats to civilians in frontline areas. In January 2025, short-range drones caused more casualties than any other weapon in Ukraine — said Danielle Bell, HRMMU director.
A staggering 95% of drone casualties occurred in war zones controlled by Ukraine. Only 5% were individuals on the Russian side of the front.
There are many videos available online showing Russian drone attacks. Putin's army soldiers deliberately target civilians, such as those using public transportation. The report indicates that this is another example of human rights violations by the Russian army in the war with Ukraine.
