The recent wave of Russian missile strikes in Ukraine has left at least 38 people dead and 190 injured, including children at a hospital in Kyiv. US President Joe Biden has strongly condemned the attacks, calling them a “horrific reminder of Russia’s brutality” and vowing to strengthen Kyiv’s air defenses.
Despite Russia denying involvement in the attack on the children’s hospital, the UN has stated that it is highly likely that Moscow was behind the blast. Analysts who spoke to BBC Verify also support this conclusion.
As world leaders prepare to gather for a Nato summit in Washington, the focus will be on defense and deterrence in the context of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine, although not a Nato member, has been seeking increased support from Western allies to defend against Russian attacks.
The attack on the children’s hospital in Kyiv has been described as brutal, with President Zelensky calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a “bloody criminal.” The need for new air defense systems in Ukraine is urgent, but Western officials have been cautious in providing more support.
The UK’s new Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has also condemned the attack and pledged continued support for Ukraine. The situation remains tense as both sides engage in military actions, with casualties reported on both sides.
The UN Security Council is set to meet at Ukraine’s request, and the international community is closely monitoring the situation as tensions escalate in the region.
