In a devastating wave of attacks early Monday, Russia unleashed a barrage of over 40 missiles across Ukraine, resulting in at least 21 fatalities, according to Ukrainian officials. The assault, one of the largest in recent months, struck multiple cities and caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed via social media that Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital in Kyiv, one of Ukraine's most respected pediatric facilities, was among the targets hit.
"And the entire world must use all its determination to finally put an end to the Russian strikes. Killing is what Putin brings," Zelenskyy stated. "Only together can we bring real peace and security."
The missile strikes extended beyond Kyiv, impacting cities such as Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Slovyansk, and Kramatorsk. In Kryvyi Rih, Zelenskyy's hometown, at least 10 people lost their lives, while three more were killed in Pokrovsk, according to local officials.
The Security Service of Ukraine has initiated a criminal investigation into the hospital strike, labeling it a "war crime." Preliminary findings suggest that a Russian Kh-101 missile was responsible for the damage to the medical facility.
This large-scale attack comes on the eve of a three-day NATO summit in Washington, where US President Joe Biden is set to meet with alliance members. The timing is significant, as NATO is expected to discuss increased military and financial support for Ukraine. A senior White House official said recently that "significant" announcements regarding aid to Ukraine are anticipated during the summit.
A doctor at the hospital informed local media that the missile destroyed a building where two surgeries were in progress at the time of the attack, further highlighting the devastating impact on medical services and civilian lives.
