Tue Sep 10 16:03:46 UTC 2024: ## ICC Prosecutor Vows Justice for Russian Crimes in Ukraine, Visiting Bombed Children’s Hospital

**Kyiv, Ukraine** – Karim Khan, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), has pledged to bring justice for the crimes committed by Russia during its ongoing war in Ukraine. During a visit to Ohmatdyt, Ukraine’s largest children’s hospital in Kyiv, which was struck by a missile in July, Khan emphasized his commitment to “pierce the veil of impunity” and ensure that Russia is held accountable.

The hospital attack, which killed two adults and a young boy, has been condemned by the United Nations, which deems Moscow “highly likely” responsible. While Russia claims the blast was caused by a misfired Ukrainian air defense missile, Khan stated that his team is examining remnants of the missile bearing serial numbers.

Khan met with doctors and patients outside Ohmatdyt’s damaged intensive care unit, including Solomia Fomeniuk, a 16-year-old who was receiving kidney dialysis at the time of the attack. Solomia, who now receives treatment in Lviv, spoke of the fear and confusion surrounding the attack, while her mother, Oksana, expressed the devastating impact the incident has had on their lives.

Ukraine’s Prosecutor General, Andriy Kostin, briefed Khan on the attack, showcasing information about the type of missile used and the extensive damage to the hospital. Kostin assured the BBC that every effort would be made to bring prosecutions at the ICC, emphasizing that “justice will be served.”

In March 2023, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, and further warrants were issued for former defense minister Sergei Shoigu and the chief of general staff, Valery Gerasimov. Kostin stated that all legal avenues would be pursued, vowing to hold perpetrators accountable even if it takes decades.

While acknowledging the limitations of his team’s work, Khan assured Solomia’s mother that they are doing their best to hold those responsible accountable. He emphasized that “if everybody plays their part, hopefully it can mitigate some of the harrowing stories that we’re hearing around the world and also here in Ukraine.”

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