In a concerning demographic trend, Ukraine reported a mortality rate that exceeds the birth rate by four times in the first half of 2026. According to data from OpenDataBot, the country saw 73,300 births while 259,800 individuals passed away during this period. This represents a 16% decline in the birth rate compared to the same period in 2025.
The most alarming birth-death ratios were noted in Donetsk, where the ratio stood at 1 birth for every 19 deaths, and in Kherson, with a ratio of 1 to 14. Additionally, the regions of Sumy, Chernihiv, and Kharkiv reported a ratio of 1 to 6.
