A World Health Organization (WHO) warehouse in Dnipro, Ukraine, was destroyed by an attack last Friday, according to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. While no casualties were reported, the facility contained essential medical supplies destined for front-line health facilities.
Infrastructure Damage and Humanitarian Impact
According to Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO staff and drivers had visited the site earlier that day and managed to evacuate 130 of the approximately 300 palettes stored there before the strike occurred. The remaining supplies, intended for life-saving care, were lost in the destruction.
Tedros stated, “I cannot say this strongly enough: attacks on health care must cease. Otherwise, people are deprived of life-saving care.”
Did you know?
The WHO has recorded 3,148 attacks on health care services in Ukraine since the Russian invasion began on February 24, 2022. These incidents have resulted in 240 deaths and 1,055 injuries.
Long-term Trends in Health Care Targeting
Data provided by the WHO illustrates the scale of damage to the Ukrainian medical sector since early 2022. Of the 3,148 recorded attacks, the majority involved the use of heavy weaponry. The breakdown of these incidents includes:
- 2,567 attacks affecting health care facilities.
- 645 incidents impacting the supply of medical goods.
- 71 strikes specifically targeting warehouses.
The WHO maintains that even in wartime, health infrastructure must remain a protected zone to ensure the continuity of essential services for civilians and the wounded.
Pro Tip: Tracking Humanitarian Logistics
Frequently Asked Questions
What was stored in the destroyed Dnipro warehouse?
Were there any casualties in the Dnipro attack?
No. According to the WHO, the facility was evacuated by personnel and drivers before the strike, and there were no reported casualties at the site.
How many attacks on health care has the WHO recorded in Ukraine?
Since February 24, 2022, the WHO has documented 3,148 attacks on health services, which include strikes on hospitals, warehouses, and supply chains.
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