Attacks and Threats Against Journalists in Ukraine Increased in 2025
In 2025, attacks and threats against journalists in Ukraine have surged significantly, with statistics revealing 160 recorded incidents this year alone. The total number of media professionals killed since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion has reached 147, according to the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine.
In a troubling trend, attacks and threats against journalists in Ukraine have escalated sharply in 2025, as evidenced by statistics showing that 160 incidents have been recorded this year alone. The total number of media professionals who have lost their lives since the beginning of Russia's large-scale invasion has now reached 147, according to data from the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine.
This figure marks a stark increase compared to the 91 journalists who had been reported dead as of June 2024, highlighting the growing risks faced by journalists covering the ongoing conflict. It is crucial to note that at least 21 of these fatalities occurred while the journalists were fulfilling their professional duties. This was emphasized by the union's head, Serhiy Tomilenko, during a parliamentary commission meeting on April 8, which was dedicated to crimes against media personnel.
Tomilenko further elaborated that 70 of the recorded incidents in 2025 involved damage to or destruction of media property or personal equipment belonging to journalists. Additionally, he revealed that 28 Ukrainian journalists remain in Russian captivity, stressing that these figures are not definitive due to limited access to information regarding all cases of persecution.
“Any marking of 'Press' turns a journalist into a live target,” Tomilenko stated, urging reporters working near the front lines to avoid identification with visible press markings on their protective gear. He pointed out that this issue has been discussed with representatives of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), highlighting the growing dilemma between international standards that encourage clear identification of journalists and the harsh realities on the ground in Ukraine, where such markings can make journalists more vulnerable to attacks.
On December 4, 2025, the Ukrainian Parliament established a temporary investigative commission to probe crimes committed by Russian forces against journalists and media workers. Journalists covering the war against Russia in Ukraine face constant dangers, including drone strikes, artillery fire, and abduction. Since the war began on February 24, 2022, the organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has documented over 175 cases of abuse against journalists in connection with the conflict.