Today was the first day of school for Ukrainian children. Overnight, Russia once again fired dozens of missiles, rockets and drones at Ukrainian civilians.
In Sumy last night, Russia struck an educational facility that houses an orphanage and a rehabilitation center. Two children were among the thirteen civilians injured.
Targeting Ukraine’s children, Russia seeks to destroy Ukraine’s future. Unable to defeat Ukraine on the battlefield, Russia seeks to make Ukraine unliveable by destroying its cities, towns, hospitals, schools, markets, power plants and other civilian infrastructure.
Russia does so with impunity. Ukraine’s western partners protect Russian airfields and missile depots by prohibiting Ukraine to strike them. This policy is senseless, self-defeating and costs Ukrainian lives.
Today many Ukrainian children were forced from school into bomb shelters as air raid sirens warned of more Russian bombing. Ukraine’s children know the horrors and bear the physical and psychological scars of Russia’s war. Russia has systemically and purposely targeted Ukrainian children with abduction, forced deportation, and unspeakable abuse.
Children have the right to learn in safety and security. Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russia’s genocidal war. We urge Ukraine’s partners to end their prohibition and allow Ukraine to hit Russian military targets inside Russia.
Stand With Ukraine. Let Ukraine Strike Back.
