The president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, reported that the casualty toll had risen to 43 dead and 200 injured in the attacks carried out on Monday by Russian forces against Ukrainian territory, including a children’s hospital in Kyiv. [Citation: Reuters]
The official described a day of mourning across several Ukrainian cities in memory of the victims of the missile strike. He noted that more than 40 missiles of varying types were launched during the peak traffic hour, and one of them struck a specialized pediatric hospital, where doctors and nurses fought to save children facing serious illnesses such as cancer and heart conditions. [Citation: Reuters]
Zelenskiy emphasized that Moscow appears to know exactly where its missiles will hit. He described the direct impact as the destruction of the hospital building and painted a vivid scene of doctors, civilians, and rescue workers pulling through the debris to rescue as many lives as possible. He spoke from the Ronald Reagan Institute, urging those gathered to understand the human cost and to demand firm action from NATO allies at an alliance summit coinciding with the 75th anniversary of its founding. [Citation: Reuters]
The invasion affected multiple cities, including Kyiv, Dnipro, Krivyi Rih, and other areas in Donetsk province. President Biden announced that five countries, the United States, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Romania, would supply Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine in response to the latest wave of strikes. Zelenskiy described the summit’s early discussions as yielding tangible results. [Citation: Reuters]
Across the country, officials reported continued disruption from the attacks, as civil services and medical facilities faced the immediate challenge of safeguarding civilians and restoring essential services. The international response signaled a renewed commitment to protect Ukrainian airspace and deter further aggression, while leaders weighed additional steps in support of Kyiv. [Citation: Reuters]
In the days ahead, Ukrainian authorities plan to intensify humanitarian corridors, bolster hospital readiness, and coordinate with Western partners to ensure rapid medical supply deliveries and rapid trauma care for the injured. The focus remains on preserving life, supporting frontline medical teams, and maintaining resilience in communities under strain from ongoing hostilities. [Citation: Reuters]