At the 79th World Health Assembly, Russia faced sharp condemnation from member states over its ongoing attacks on Ukraine’s health system. Despite attempts by Russia’s delegate to interrupt debate and dismiss discussion, countries highlighted the devastating toll of the war. The WHO Director-General’s report estimated 55,600 civilian casualties, including nearly 15,000 deaths, with violence intensifying in 2025. The report also documented 579 attacks on healthcare facilities in 2025, an 18% increase from the previous year, causing deaths and injuries among health workers and patients. Since January 2026, WHO has recorded an additional 190 attacks, underscoring the escalating crisis.
Delegates noted that 202 of Ukraine’s health facilities have been severely damaged and over 1,000 partially damaged. Countries condemned Russia’s deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, elderly homes, and kindergartens. Germany emphasized that Russia’s attacks on healthcare institutions averaged more than 3,000 incidents, while Ghana expressed concern about the burden placed on neighboring countries receiving large numbers of refugees.
Russia’s representative attempted to block the Assembly from noting the WHO report, calling it “disinformation” and accusing WHO of ignoring attacks on Russian facilities. However, member states voted to proceed, leaving Russia isolated. WHO’s report acknowledged 21 attacks on healthcare facilities in Russia, though Russia disputed the figures, claiming far higher numbers.
Beyond Ukraine, the Assembly also discussed polio, which remains endemic in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Countries such as Pakistan and Afghanistan continue to face challenges in vaccination campaigns due to conflict and funding cuts. Libya, speaking on behalf of the region, noted declines in transmission trends, offering cautious optimism. However, Oman and others reminded delegates that polio remains a global health challenge, with new cases emerging in conflict zones, requiring sustained international effort.
