Mourning in Kyiv as rescuers clear rubble from children’s hospital

Ukraine Mourns as Russian Strikes Devastate Children’s Hospital in Kyiv

In a somber atmosphere, Ukraine observed a day of mourning on Tuesday following a devastating Russian missile attack that shattered the Okhmatdyt children’s hospital in Kyiv, causing widespread international condemnation.

A National Tragedy

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that 43 people were killed across Ukraine in a series of nearly 40 missiles that struck various towns and cities early Monday. In Kyiv, the day was marked by flags at half-mast and the postponement of entertainment events. Rescue workers and cranes were seen at the Okhmatdyt paediatric hospital, where ongoing efforts to clear debris and find survivors were in full swing.

In his evening address, Zelensky reassured the nation, stating, “We will restore Okhmatdyt.” He confirmed that patients from the hospital had been transferred to other facilities for their safety.

Casualties and Heroic Efforts

The interior ministry reported that the search for survivors at the hospital had concluded, with two people confirmed dead and 32 injured. Among the wounded were eight children, who were promptly hospitalized. At the time of the attack, there were 627 children in the hospital, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Pleas for Support and Defense

Zelensky has been persistent in his calls for increased air defense support from international allies. He vowed to renew these pleas at the upcoming NATO summit in Washington, aiming to secure more fighter jets and additional security guarantees to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression.

“We are doing and will always do everything to make the Russian terrorist lose,” Zelensky declared in a video statement. He expressed gratitude for the new air defense package unveiled at the NATO summit but urged the United States and other allies to provide further support.

Global Condemnation

The attack drew widespread condemnation from governments across Europe and North America. Pope Francis expressed “grave sorrow” over the strikes. At the United Nations Security Council, Russia faced criticism for its “systemic attacks” on Ukraine’s medical facilities.

Joyce Msuya, acting under-secretary for humanitarian affairs, stated during an emergency meeting, “Intentionally directing attacks against a protected hospital is a war crime and perpetrators must be held to account.” She highlighted a concerning pattern of attacks on healthcare and other civilian infrastructure across Ukraine.

Russia’s Firm Stance

Despite the overwhelming evidence and condemnation, Russia, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council, maintained its stance. Vasily Nebenzya, Russia’s envoy to the United Nations, indicated a firm line against Ukraine and its Western allies.

The Human Cost

Hundreds of volunteers joined the efforts at the Okhmatdyt complex on Monday, working tirelessly to clear rubble and search for survivors. City officials revealed that the two individuals killed at the hospital were adults—a doctor and a visitor. In addition to the hospital, a housing bloc in a central district of Kyiv was also struck, with several bodies pulled from the rubble.

The latest figures indicated that 33 people were killed and 117 wounded in the capital alone. Ukraine reported that a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile had struck the children’s hospital, while Moscow blamed Ukrainian air defense systems for the damage.

UN Investigation

The United Nations reported a “high likelihood” that the children’s hospital in Kyiv suffered a “direct hit” from a Russian missile. Danielle Bell, head of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, called for a deeper investigation, citing video footage that showed “the weapon directly impacting the hospital.”

Continued Attacks and Conflict

Russian attacks on Ukraine persisted overnight, with additional casualties reported in the southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. The Kremlin claims these regions as part of Russia. The Russian defense ministry also announced the capture of the village of Yasnobrodivka in eastern Ukraine, near the Russian-held city of Donetsk. This village is the latest in a series of settlements seized as Ukraine’s forces struggle against the advancing Russian troops.

Conclusion

The devastating attack on the Okhmatdyt children’s hospital has not only claimed lives and caused widespread damage but also highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. As rescue workers and volunteers continue their efforts, the international community’s support remains crucial in addressing the immediate needs and long-term recovery of the affected regions. President Zelensky’s calls for increased defense aid and the global condemnation of Russia’s actions underscore the urgent need for a resolution to this conflict, which continues to impact countless lives across Ukraine.