Russia attacks hospital in Kyiv and other key installations
Ukrainian Ambassador to Botswana Liubov Abravitova has fired salvo at Botswana and other SADC countries for failing to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in the ongoing war.
Abravitova criticised Botswana and its neighbours for not denouncing the missile attack on a children’s hospital in Ukrainian capital Kyiv. The ongoing conflict, which has resulted in astronomical casualties and damage to critical infrastructure, has persisted for at least two years following Russia's annexation of Ukrainian territory.
“Unfortunately, we don't see many reactions from our partners in Southern Africa regarding this crime against humanity. I encourage both the media and governments in this region to speak out because silence gives the aggressor a sense of impunity.
“This silence emboldens the aggressor to commit further atrocities,” Abravitova stated.
In an exclusive interview with the Botswana Guardian following the missile attacks, Abravitova, who heads the newly-opened Ukrainian Embassy in Botswana, emphasised that this is not the first time Russia has bombed Ukrainian children. “It is crucial for the world to address these attacks on Ukraine. Every war has its truths, and what is happening clearly violates all possible norms and international laws.”
Abravitova explained that the targeted hospital is one of the largest in Eastern Europe, known as the National Children's Hospital. “This facility treats children with specific medical needs and has highly qualified medical personnel. It has nearly 800 beds, including intensive care units, and performs up to 9,000 surgeries annually, treating chronic diseases such as cancer and providing dialysis,” she said.
At the time of the missile strike, hundreds of children, their parents, and medical staff were present.
“Twelve departments were heavily damaged, including eight surgical and five oncology departments. The surgery block and radiology and radiation therapy departments were also severely affected.
“Out of 627 children in the hospital, 94 were relocated, 68 remain hospitalized, over 50 people were injured, and 10 people died. We expect the casualty count to rise as debris is still being cleared,” Abravitova said.
She appealed for international assistance to restore the clinic, noting that donations and specific medical equipment are being sent from around the world. Abravitova urged governments in Southern Africa to denounce Russia’s terrorist actions.
“We must see statements from these governments condemning Russia to prevent further attacks. It is absurd that Russia currently presides over the UN Security Council while committing such atrocities.”
Through the voices of free media, Abravitova hopes to raise global awareness of these tragedies and atrocities. “We must not be indifferent. This is about upholding international law and justice, not just supporting Ukraine.”
When asked about the response from Botswana and other Southern African countries, Abravitova noted the lack of loud and clear voices condemning Russia.
“Many human rights organisations worldwide, including in Africa, have made statements, but we have not heard anything from the Botswana government on this issue.”
Regarding the recent peace summit aimed at resolving the conflict, Abravitova said, “We recently held the inaugural Summit of Peace based on Zelensky's peace formula, which includes ten points aligned with the UN Charter.
“The first summit covered three points, and we expect more summits to follow. It is crucial for all countries to join this initiative to bring Russia to the negotiating table and uphold international law.”
Abravitova discussed the need for more anti-missile systems to protect Ukrainian cities, highlighting the continuous missile attacks targeting civilian infrastructure.
“This is about survival. We need weapons to protect our population and ensure our sovereign right to exist. Russia seeks total control of Ukraine and its internal policies, and we must resist this aggression.” When asked about the personal impact of the war, Abravitova shared, “The war is physically killing people in Ukraine, but it also leaves us emotionally devastated each time we hear the news.
“Despite the pain, we must move forward for the sake of our children and future generations. This struggle resonates with the history of many African countries that fought for their future.”
Ambassador Abravitova appealed to the people of Botswana: “We need your voices for a peaceful resolution to this conflict. Please do not be indifferent to the values we share.”
Abravitova criticised Botswana and its neighbours for not denouncing the missile attack on a children’s hospital in Ukrainian capital Kyiv. The ongoing conflict, which has resulted in astronomical casualties and damage to critical infrastructure, has persisted for at least two years following Russia's annexation of Ukrainian territory.
“Unfortunately, we don't see many reactions from our partners in Southern Africa regarding this crime against humanity. I encourage both the media and governments in this region to speak out because silence gives the aggressor a sense of impunity.
“This silence emboldens the aggressor to commit further atrocities,” Abravitova stated.
In an exclusive interview with the Botswana Guardian following the missile attacks, Abravitova, who heads the newly-opened Ukrainian Embassy in Botswana, emphasised that this is not the first time Russia has bombed Ukrainian children. “It is crucial for the world to address these attacks on Ukraine. Every war has its truths, and what is happening clearly violates all possible norms and international laws.”
Abravitova explained that the targeted hospital is one of the largest in Eastern Europe, known as the National Children's Hospital. “This facility treats children with specific medical needs and has highly qualified medical personnel. It has nearly 800 beds, including intensive care units, and performs up to 9,000 surgeries annually, treating chronic diseases such as cancer and providing dialysis,” she said.
At the time of the missile strike, hundreds of children, their parents, and medical staff were present.
“Twelve departments were heavily damaged, including eight surgical and five oncology departments. The surgery block and radiology and radiation therapy departments were also severely affected.
“Out of 627 children in the hospital, 94 were relocated, 68 remain hospitalized, over 50 people were injured, and 10 people died. We expect the casualty count to rise as debris is still being cleared,” Abravitova said.
She appealed for international assistance to restore the clinic, noting that donations and specific medical equipment are being sent from around the world. Abravitova urged governments in Southern Africa to denounce Russia’s terrorist actions.
“We must see statements from these governments condemning Russia to prevent further attacks. It is absurd that Russia currently presides over the UN Security Council while committing such atrocities.”
Through the voices of free media, Abravitova hopes to raise global awareness of these tragedies and atrocities. “We must not be indifferent. This is about upholding international law and justice, not just supporting Ukraine.”
When asked about the response from Botswana and other Southern African countries, Abravitova noted the lack of loud and clear voices condemning Russia.
“Many human rights organisations worldwide, including in Africa, have made statements, but we have not heard anything from the Botswana government on this issue.”
Regarding the recent peace summit aimed at resolving the conflict, Abravitova said, “We recently held the inaugural Summit of Peace based on Zelensky's peace formula, which includes ten points aligned with the UN Charter.
“The first summit covered three points, and we expect more summits to follow. It is crucial for all countries to join this initiative to bring Russia to the negotiating table and uphold international law.”
Abravitova discussed the need for more anti-missile systems to protect Ukrainian cities, highlighting the continuous missile attacks targeting civilian infrastructure.
“This is about survival. We need weapons to protect our population and ensure our sovereign right to exist. Russia seeks total control of Ukraine and its internal policies, and we must resist this aggression.” When asked about the personal impact of the war, Abravitova shared, “The war is physically killing people in Ukraine, but it also leaves us emotionally devastated each time we hear the news.
“Despite the pain, we must move forward for the sake of our children and future generations. This struggle resonates with the history of many African countries that fought for their future.”
Ambassador Abravitova appealed to the people of Botswana: “We need your voices for a peaceful resolution to this conflict. Please do not be indifferent to the values we share.”
