(MENAFN) The conflict in Ukraine has escalated to one of its most lethal stages since its onset in February 2022, the United Nations’ human rights chief announced Monday.

Volker Turk addressed the Human Rights Council, revealing that July recorded the highest number of civilian casualties—both killed and wounded—since May 2022. This surge coincides with intensified missile and drone strikes launched across Ukraine by Russian forces.

"Russia’s war in Ukraine has turned even more deadly ... Recent weeks have witnessed some of the most massive air strikes since the war began, with countrywide drone and missile saturation attacks resuming and intensifying," Turk stated.

He denounced the deliberate strikes on energy infrastructure and civilian sites as serious breaches of international law, while drawing attention to the extensive torture and abuse experienced by Ukrainian prisoners of war and those held arbitrarily.

In territories under Russian control, authorities have been enforcing their own legal systems while severely limiting freedom of movement and speech, Turk added. His office continues to collect evidence of abuses by both sides in the conflict.

“Negotiations to stop the fighting need to focus on immediate steps to protect civilians and safeguard the rights of people in occupied territory, as well as end torture and ill treatment,” Turk emphasized.

He concluded by stressing that sustainable peace hinges on strict adherence to international law.

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