WHO chief calls for protection of Ukrainian hospitals, patients, and medical staff
The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has highlighted the critical situation facing medical facilities in Ukraine. He posted about this on X (formerly Twitter).
According to Ghebreyesus, attacks on healthcare facilities have significantly hampered the provision of medical care to Ukrainians during the winter period. He stressed the urgent need to protect hospitals, patients, and healthcare workers.
Since the beginning of 2026, Ukraine has recorded nine attacks on medical facilities. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of one patient and one healthcare worker, while 11 others were injured, including both medical staff and patients.
During the attacks, three ambulances were damaged, further complicating emergency medical services.
The affected medical facilities serve over three million people. Ghebreyesus emphasised that these facilities were already operating under extreme pressure, with shortages of medical personnel, essential supplies, and fuel.
Winter conditions, including low temperatures and heavy snowfall, are also hindering repair and restoration efforts for damaged buildings and equipment.
It is worth noting that during a recent drone attack in Kyiv, a medic was killed. Additionally, the Qatar Embassy in Kyiv was damaged during a nighttime Russian strike.
