Russia Claims Kyiv Hospital Was Hit With Ukrainian Air Defense Missile

Above: People search for victims after the Russian army launched a rocket attack on the "Ohmatdyt" children's clinic on July 8, 2024 in Kyiv, Ukraine. Image copyright: Libkos/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images

The Facts

  • Following a Russian missile attack on Ukraine on Monday, Russia's Defense Ministry said assertions that it deliberately targeted a hospital in Kyiv were "absolutely untrue," claiming that the hospital was hit by a Ukrainian air defense missile.

  • In a statement, the Defense Ministry said: "Numerous photo and video reports from Kiev, which have been made public, make it clear that damage was done by a falling Ukrainian air defense missile launched from a missile system deployed within the city limits."


The Spin

Pro-Ukraine narrative

As images from the missile wreckage show, the hospital was struck by a Russian Kh-101 missile. Ukraine is investigating this act as a war crime and will do everything possible to ensure that Russia is held accountable for these terrorist actions.

Pro-Russia narrative

As videos on social media show, the hospital was not struck by a Russian missile but rather by Ukrainian air defense projectiles. Ukraine routinely stages such provocations ahead of big meetings in order to drum up support.


Metaculus Prediction


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Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO

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