A Russian missile strike on Ukraine’s largest children’s hospital on Monday has drawn global attention to the increasing number of deadly attacks on medical facilities, vehicles, and workers in the country this year. This alarming incident adds to data from the World Health Organization, indicating a rise in casualties from attacks in Ukraine.
Statistics on Attacks on Healthcare Infrastructure in Ukraine
Before the recent strike on the Ohmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv, the World Health Organization reported 18 deaths and 81 injuries resulting from over 175 attacks on healthcare infrastructure in Ukraine during the first half of 2024. Additionally, there were 44 attacks on medical vehicles in the same period.
In comparison, for the entire year of 2023, the organization documented 22 deaths and 117 injuries from 350 attacks on healthcare facilities, with 45 attacks specifically targeting medical vehicles like ambulances. Some sources indicate a higher death toll from these attacks.
Details of the Recent Hospital Attack
During the missile strike on Monday, at least one doctor and another adult were killed at the hospital, while at least 10 other individuals, including seven children, sustained injuries in the Russian barrage across the country. The broader bombardment resulted in the loss of at least 38 lives, including 27 fatalities in Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, as confirmed by local officials.
Violation of International Laws and Conventions
Attacks on civilian hospitals are explicitly prohibited under Article 18 of the Geneva Convention, a treaty ratified by United Nations member states following World War II. Furthermore, Article 20 of the convention mandates the protection of healthcare workers by all warring parties involved in a conflict.
Accusations of War Crimes
Experts assert that Russia’s consistent targeting of Ukrainian healthcare infrastructure amounts to a campaign that potentially constitutes war crimes. The deliberate attacks on medical facilities, vehicles, and personnel have sparked international outrage and calls for accountability.
