UN Security Council Convenes Over Attack on Kiev Children's Hospital
The UN Security Council has convened an emergency meeting to discuss the recent air strike on the Ochmatdyt children's hospital in Kiev. The attack left two people dead and numerous others injured, sparking international outrage. China, a key ally of Russia, expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis. Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative, emphasized the need for de-escalation and adherence to international law to prevent further civilian casualties.
International Reactions: China and the US Weigh In
China's representative, while not directly naming Russia, called for rationality and restraint from all parties involved in the conflict. The US Permanent Representative to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, was more explicit, condemning the attack as part of Russia's ongoing terror campaign in Ukraine. She highlighted that hundreds of children have been killed, thousands wounded, and millions displaced due to the conflict. Thomas-Greenfield also pointed out that Russia's actions aim to rob Ukrainian youth of their future and identity.
Russia's Defense and the Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine
Russian UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya defended his country, claiming that the missile strike on the hospital was actually a Ukrainian air defense missile. He accused Western members of the Security Council of protecting the Kiev regime and diverting attention from Ukraine's internal issues. Despite Russia's defense, the UN Human Rights Office concluded that a Russian Kh-101 missile was responsible for the attack. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and a dire need for humanitarian aid, with 40% of Ukraine's population requiring assistance. The World Health Organization reported nearly 1,900 attacks on health facilities and personnel since the war began.
