Australia decries Russian missile strikes on Ukrainian hospital

July 9, 2024 TruthUSA

Penny Wong stated that the attacks on multiple cities in Ukraine, including a children’s hospital in Kyiv, were ‘abhorrent.’

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has criticized Russia for their alleged attacks on civilian infrastructure, including hospitals.

This condemnation followed a missile strike that resulted in the death of at least 41 people in Ukraine, with a direct hit on a children’s hospital in Kyiv.

Ms. Wong expressed her shock at these attacks, describing them as “abhorrent.”

“We denounce the deliberate targeting of civilian structures, such as hospitals. Australia remains steadfast in its support for the Ukrainian people amidst Russia’s unlawful and immoral actions,” Ms. Wong stated.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese mentioned that the ongoing actions of Russia continue to astound the world and will be a key discussion point at the upcoming NATO summit.

“The recent targeting of a school by Russia is another completely unacceptable action. It is long overdue for Vladimir Putin to put an end to this conflict,” he shared with the media.

Mr. Albanese condemned the intentional targeting of civilian infrastructure, causing harm to hospitals, schools, and other critical locations, in a reckless manner.

“The Russian missile strikes on various Ukrainian cities, including the children’s hospital, are truly abhorrent,” he stated.

He also highlighted Australia’s significant contribution of over one billion dollars to aid the Ukrainian people.

However, Shadow Foreign Minister Simon Birmingham urged the Australian government to increase its support for Ukraine.

Senator Birmingham expressed disappointment that the prime minister would not be attending the 75th-anniversary summit of NATO in the United States, with Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles attending in his place.

“I trust that Richard Marles attends with clear strategies to ensure robust engagement with NATO from Australia. It is crucial for Australia to enhance its support for Ukraine, as one of the key countries without a multi-year support program in place,” Mr. Birmingham shared with Sky News.

Mr. Birmingham emphasized the critical timing of the NATO summit, considering the global events over the past year.

“Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine, Iran’s elevation of terrorist activities, and China’s military movements across our region’s oceans highlight the challenges and dangers we face in the world,” Mr. Birmingham said.

Russia denied responsibility for the attack on the hospital, attributing it to Ukrainian anti-missile fire.

Ukraine Expected to Be Hot Topic at NATO Summit

The United States and its allies are preparing significant announcements at the summit concerning Ukraine.

White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby stated that these announcements will focus on “strengthening military and political partnerships” with Ukraine.

U.S. President Joe Biden plans to host an event with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following a NATO Ukraine Council meeting on Thursday.

In a statement on July 7, Mr. Marles highlighted the partnership between Australia and NATO, reinforcing their joint commitment to the international rules-based order.

“The Australian American Leadership Dialogue underscores the strength of our alliance as we evolve and adapt to our strategic environment,” he mentioned.

On another note, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stressed that those accountable for “Putin’s illegal war” must face consequences.

“Russia’s attack on the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv represents a despicable act against Ukrainian civilians,” he declared.

“My thoughts go out to all the victims and their families. The UK remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine.”

Mr. Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to enhance the protection of cities and communities from Russian assaults.

“Decisions will be made. The world has the necessary strength for this. I appreciate everyone involved in rescuing and caring for our people, and those providing assistance,” he expressed.

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