Russian Missile Strike on Ukraine’s Largest Children’s Hospital

A devastating Russian missile strike hit Ukraine’s largest children’s hospital in Kyiv on Monday. This attack highlighted the escalating number of deadly assaults on medical facilities, vehicles, and personnel in the country this year.

Impact of Attacks on Health Care Infrastructure

According to data from the World Health Organization (W.H.O.), there have been alarming statistics regarding attacks on health care infrastructure in Ukraine. In the first half of 2024, W.H.O. documented 18 deaths and 81 injuries from over 175 attacks on medical facilities. Additionally, there were 44 attacks on medical vehicles during this period.

The numbers for 2023 show that there were 22 deaths and 117 injuries from 350 attacks on health care facilities, with 45 attacks specifically targeting medical vehicles like ambulances. Some organizations report even higher death tolls.

Violation of International Law

Attacks on civilian hospitals are prohibited under Article 18 of the Geneva Convention, which was established by United Nations member states post-World War II. Furthermore, Article 20 of the convention emphasizes the protection of health care workers by all warring parties.

Condemnation of Russia’s Actions

Experts have criticized Russia for its repeated attacks on Ukrainian health care infrastructure. Many argue that these actions amount to war crimes, as they violate international humanitarian laws and endanger the lives of innocent civilians, including children.