UNICEF: More than half of Ukraine's children have been displaced since the war began

More than half of Ukraine's children have been displaced from their homes since the start of the war on February 24, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) announced Thursday.

"A month of war in Ukraine has displaced 4.3 million children - more than half of the country's estimated 7.5 million children," UNICEF said.

She explained that 1.8 million children were displaced and became refugees, and 2.5 million children were displaced within Ukraine.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell noted that the war in Ukraine "caused one of the fastest large-scale displacements of children since World War II."

And she warned that this happening "could have lasting repercussions on future generations."

"Children's security, well-being and access to basic services are all under threat from the ongoing horrific violence," Russell said.

UNICEF confirmed that 81 children were killed during the war in Ukraine and 108 were wounded, stressing that the real toll is much higher.

The World Health Organization has verified 64 attacks on healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics and ambulances, since the start of the war.

Ukraine's Ministry of Education reported damage to more than 500 schools and other educational facilities, according to UNICEF.

According to the figures of the United Nations Children's Fund, about 1.4 million people lack safe drinking water, while 4.6 million people have limited access to water or are at risk of being cut off from water.

"More than 450,000 children between the ages of six and 23 months are in need of supplemental nutritional support," UNICEF added.

It also warned against noting a decline in routine vaccination rates for children, including measles and polio vaccinations, which "may quickly lead to the spread of diseases that can be prevented with vaccines, especially in overcrowded areas, where the population has resorted to escape acts of violence."

The IAEA renewed its appeal for an immediate ceasefire and to protect children from harm.

"Children are in urgent need of peace and protection. They need their rights," Russell said.

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