Ukrainian civilian casualties rose by 26% in 2025, researchers say | First Thing

Figures said to reflect increased Russian military targeting of cities and infrastructure. Plus, the week the Cuban crisis got real

• Don't already get First Thing in your inbox? Sign up here

Good morning.

Civilian casualties in Ukraine caused by Russian strikes surged by 26% in 2025, reflecting increased Russian targeting of cities and infrastructure in the country, according to a global conflict monitoring group.

What did the AOAV say about the figures? Iain Overton, executive director of AOAV, said the figures showed Ukraine fits a wider collapse of restraint that is now visible across multiple wars", and respect for the distinction of proportionality in war has broken".

Does her father still face deportation? Days before Ofelia died, a judge ruled that Torres Maldonado's deportation would be blocked, due to the hardship it would bring his family, opening the door to a potential pathway to permanent residence and eventual citizenship.