UN notes 'significant increase' in number of evacuees from Ukraine's frontline areas in 2025

According to UNHCR, about 10 million Ukrainians have fled their homes since the beginning of the Russian-Ukrainian war. Of these, 3.7 million have moved within the country and 5.9 million have become refugees abroad. More than 10.8 million people in Ukraine are in need of humanitarian assistance.

In 2025, there has been a significant increase in evacuations from frontline areas. Some 90,000 evacuees passed through UNHCR's transit centres working as temporary humanitarian hubs, with more than 115,000 people leaving the Donetsk region alone.

Among the internally displaced, 71 per cent have been internally displaced for more than two years, and many have moved several times. More than half - 57 per cent - came from territories partially or fully occupied by Russia.

At the same time, about 1.4 million refugees have returned to Ukraine, including more than 300,000 to areas that were not their permanent place of residence, including those under occupation. Among the reasons for leaving are not only security, but also disruptions in electricity (78%) and heating (57%).

Donetsk Oblast authorities continue to urge residents to evacuate due to constant Russian shelling.

According to the latest regional report, 61% of refugees and 73% of internally displaced people plan to return home, although the number of those who have not yet made up their minds is growing.