Zelensky: "243 Children Killed and 200,000 Taken Away Due to Russian Invasion"

"Most of the 5 Million Refugees Are Women Who Left with Children"

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to the people who have resisted during the 50th day of Russia's invasion on the 14th (local time). Photo by the Office of the President of Ukraine (Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyun-joo] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that an estimated 243 children have lost their lives due to Russia's invasion.

According to the British daily The Guardian on the 1st (local time), President Zelensky announced in a national video address that "In the 98 days since Russia's invasion, 446 children have been injured, 243 have died, and 139 are missing," listing the names of 10 deceased children.

President Zelensky emphasized, "Among the Ukrainians forcibly taken to Russia, 200,000 are children," adding, "Ukraine will hold those responsible accountable." He also raised his voice, saying, "(Ukraine) cannot be conquered, our people will not surrender, and we will show Russia that our children will not become the property of the occupiers."

Ukraine estimates that over 12 million people have lost their homes due to Russian attacks, with more than 5 million having fled abroad. President Zelensky said that most of the refugees are women who left with their children and vowed to do everything possible to ensure their return.

Meanwhile, Russian forces are concentrating firepower on the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. On the same day, according to CNN US, Serhiy Haidai, governor of Ukraine's Luhansk province, reported that fighting continues in the eastern city of Sievierodonetsk, but Russian forces have taken control of 80% of the city.