Research has shown how the number, structure, and settlement of Ukrainians have changed during the war. Over two and a half years, the population has decreased by at least 10 million people, which has resulted from the mass exodus of citizens abroad and the deterioration of the demographic situation.
As a result of military actions, the country has lost about 10 million residents, and the number of Ukrainians in the territory under state control is only 31.1 million people. The main reason for the demographic decline has been the mass emigration of citizens abroad, where the largest Ukrainian communities have formed in Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Italy, and Spain. The eastern and southern regions have emptied, while the central and western territories have taken in internally displaced persons but have also suffered demographic losses due to emigration.
The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of military casualties and thousands of civilian deaths. Mortality in regions close to the front line has significantly increased, and the overall mortality rate in the country exceeds pre-war figures. There is also a notable critical drop in birth rates and an aging society. Factors influencing this situation include security threats, financial difficulties, and uncertainty about the future.
The demographic situation in Ukraine under the influence of the war is extremely serious. Military actions have led to a significant decrease in population due to emigration and increased mortality, resulting in changes in the distribution of the population across the territory of the country. This has potentially serious implications for the future development of Ukraine.