Fact Check: Russia's war is now primarily targeting Ukraine's civilian population.

Fact Check: "Russia's war is now primarily targeting Ukraine's civilian population."

What We Know

Recent reports indicate a significant increase in Russian attacks targeting civilians in Ukraine. According to Human Rights Watch, Russian attacks since January 2025 have resulted in more civilian casualties than during the same period in 2024. These attacks have been characterized as indiscriminate and disproportionate, violating international law. Specific incidents include a missile strike in Poltava that killed 15 civilians and another in Izium that resulted in 6 civilian deaths, with no military targets nearby (Human Rights Watch).

On June 23, 2025, a series of drone and missile strikes in Kyiv killed at least 14 civilians, including nine in a residential building that partially collapsed. This attack was part of a larger pattern of assaults on civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools (Associated Press).

Analysis

The evidence strongly supports the claim that Russia's military operations are increasingly targeting civilian populations. Reports from multiple credible sources, including Human Rights Watch and the Associated Press, detail specific attacks that resulted in civilian casualties without clear military justification. This pattern of behavior aligns with definitions of war crimes under international law, as these attacks appear to be deliberate and indiscriminate.

Furthermore, the Institute for the Study of War has noted that Russian forces are increasingly relying on tactics that target civilian morale, suggesting a strategic shift in their military operations. The use of drones and missiles to strike residential areas and civilian infrastructure indicates a clear prioritization of civilian targets over military objectives.

While some may argue that military operations can inadvertently affect civilians, the systematic nature of these attacks, as highlighted by various human rights organizations, points to a deliberate strategy rather than mere collateral damage.

Conclusion

The claim that "Russia's war is now primarily targeting Ukraine's civilian population" is True. The evidence presented from multiple credible sources demonstrates a clear pattern of Russian military actions that specifically target civilians, violating international humanitarian law and constituting war crimes.

Fact Check: Russia's war is now primarily targeting Ukraine's civilian population.