UN Human Rights Chief Warns of Escalating 'Catastrophe' in Ukraine Amid Surge in Civilian Casualties and Russian Strikes on Kyiv Bridges

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has warned that the war in Ukraine is an escalating 'human rights catastrophe,' with a 55 percent increase in civilian casualties during the first eight months of 2026 compared to the previous year. This warning comes as Russia continues to target critical infrastructure in Kyiv, with a second major bridge, the Northern Bridge, reportedly struck, causing damage and traffic disruptions.