Wishes from children across Ukraine
With the future in mind, we have been asking children across Ukraine what they wish for in 2026. Their answers are moving and often far from what one would normally expect from a child. We wanted to share a few of their drawings below — simple expressions of what they hope the new year will bring.
Our hope is that, together, we can continue working so that, in time, their dreams return to toys, games, and friendship, rather than wishes for quiet nights, electricity, or safety.
“I dream to always have light and quiet nights in our country.” Iehor, 8 years old, Verhnyodniprovsk, Dnipro Region.
“I dream that my family will always be together.” Mariia, 9 years old, Trostyanets, Sumy Region.
“I dream to sleep through the whole night without air-raid alarms.” Anastasiya, 5 years old, Pereshchepyne, Dnipro Region.
“My dream is for all countries to have peace and to see again all my friends who are now in other cities.” Kseniia, 10 years old, Novopokrovka, Kharkiv Region.
“I dream for the war to end and for everyone to stay alive people and animals.” Anastasiia, 5 years old, Tsarychanka, Dnipro Region.
If you are able, I invite you to consider making a donation today to help UNICEF continue reaching children in Ukraine through this winter. Your support can help provide warmth, safe water, and critical services when families need them most.
As we enter the new year, I hope we can continue this journey of serving children with renewed strength and energy.