G-7 health ministers condemn attacks on health facilities in Ukraine

Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra yesterday joined health ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan in strongly condemning Russia’s military attacks on Ukrainian health care facilities, noting that the World Health Organization has documented 64 attacks on health care resulting in 15 deaths and 37 injuries.

“Intentionally directing attacks at civilians and civilian infrastructure, including health care facilities and workers, violates International Humanitarian Law,” the health ministers said. “Health must remain a priority, with health workers being protected so they can provide emergency care to save lives, and with health systems and facilities being protected so that they remain accessible to all who need them.”

The AHA has made a donation to the U.S. Ukraine Foundation to support its critical humanitarian and refugee assistance in Ukraine, including covering the costs of sending medical supplies. The foundation also is coordinating the distribution of donated medical supplies through its operation “Ukraine AirLIFT.”  For more information, see yesterday’s AHA Special Bulletin.