Ukraine: Doctors of the World condemns the attack on Okhmatdyt Hospital - Doctors of the World

Ukraine: Doctors of the World condemns the attack on Okhmatdyt Hospital

 

Doctors of the World strongly condemns the attacks targeting the civilian population and infrastructure in various cities in Ukraine, including the Okhmatdyt hospital in Kyiv, the largest pediatric clinic in Ukraine, which has been treating many children suffering from cancer for months.

The direct attack on the Okhmatdyt hospital resulted in the deaths of 2 hospital staff. A further 16 people were injured, including 7 children. The Russian hypersonic missile is said to have hit the hospital’s toxicology department where children undergo dialysis.

The attack on the hospital was part of a larger Russian missile attack. Moscow launched three dozen missiles on several Ukrainian cities, causing the deaths of 36 people and leaving over 125 wounded, however the toll is expected to rise.  

This is neither the only nor the first attack on health infrastructure. According to the International Rescue Committee, more than 1,480 attacks on the health system have been recorded since the beginning of the invasion.

1036

damaged or destroyed health structures

217

healthcare staff killed

173

healthcare staff injured

Russian officials argue that they are not responsible for this most recent attack that struck the children’s hospital, however many Ukrainian civilians and officials argue that this is a deliberate tactic by Moscow to cause psychological stress and to bring down morale. 

While the West has provided Kyiv with advanced air defense systems, Moscow continues to develop new bombardement tactics, allowing missiles to strike Kyiv and cause extensive damage. 

Doctors of the World reminds us that health structures are not targets and must be protected at all times, in accordance with international humanitarian law which sets out the rules in armed conflicts.

We condemn the increasing targeting of civilian infrastructure in Ukraine and in other war contexts around the world. We are committed to continuing to support and protect civilians disproportionately affected by war.

We call on all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law. We urge all States, citizens and civil society organizations to respect and protect humanitarian principles.

Doctors of the World remains on site to help and bear witness. In Ukraine and wherever there are people in need.