Humanitarian Aid Under Fire in Ukraine
On May 25, a Russian missile strike in Dnipro completely destroyed a UN World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse holding over $1.4 million in humanitarian supplies. The aid was meant to support 130,000 people. Fortunately, no staff members were injured. This was the second time the facility had been hit; a drone attack had already damaged it back in November 2025.
UN Coordination Vehicle Targeted in Kherson
In Kherson’s Korabelny district, Russian forces also used drones to attack a vehicle belonging to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha expressed serious concern over these incidents, stating:
“Yesterday, a Russian Iskander missile struck a UN World Food Programme warehouse in Dnipro. Thankfully, no one was hurt. But over $1.4 million in humanitarian aid intended for 130,000 people was completely destroyed.” — Andriy Sybiha
Sybiha urged UN Secretary-General António Guterres to use all available tools and authority to force Russia to stop what he called 'these reckless attacks on humanitarian operations.' WFP official Richard Reagan also voiced alarm, saying:
“Deliberate attacks on humanitarian workers trying to save innocent civilians affected by war are a crime and a violation of international humanitarian law.” — Richard Reagan
Over the past 18 months, the WFP has recorded more than 84 incidents involving:
- warehouses
- vehicles
- aid distribution points
- partner property in Ukraine
These figures highlight the growing dangers for humanitarian operations in the region, demanding urgent action.
This situation underscores the severe threats facing humanitarian missions in Ukraine, especially as military activity intensifies. Destroying aid warehouses not only worsens conditions for those in need but also endangers the lives of those trying to deliver assistance. How the international community responds may prove crucial to sustaining humanitarian operations in the region.
The recent missile strike in Dnipro is not an isolated incident, as humanitarian efforts in Ukraine continue to face escalating threats. In a related event, a UN humanitarian convoy was targeted in the Kherson region, further highlighting the precarious situation for aid workers and the challenges they encounter in delivering essential supplies. For more details on this alarming trend and its implications for humanitarian operations, read about the recent attack on a UN convoy.