The World Health Organization next week will consider a resolution condemning Russia because of the war unleashed by the Kremlin in Ukraine. This document may contain a decision to close a large WHO regional office in Moscow.

It is reported by Reuters with reference to the draft resolution.

This document, prepared by EU diplomats and submitted to the WHO Regional Office for Europe, is based on a request from Ukraine. It was signed by representatives of 38 WHO countries, including Turkey, France and Germany. Consideration of the resolution, which may result in the closure of the organization’s office in the capital of Russia, is scheduled for May 10.

The text of the document refers to the emergency situation in the field of healthcare in Ukraine. It denounces Russian aggression that has resulted in mass casualties, disruption of medical services, increased risk of death from chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and radiological and chemical risks.

The resolution states that since February 24, 2022, there have been 191 attacks on Ukraine’s healthcare infrastructure, resulting in 75 deaths. These losses are called “completely unacceptable”.

According to the agency, citing its own sources, the resolution will not yet contain tougher sanctions, such as expelling Russia from the WHO executive committee and temporarily freezing its voting rights. However, perhaps the last question will be considered from 22 to 28 May.

This move is considered political. It should contribute to Western efforts to isolate Moscow, but will have no major implications for Russian health care or global health policy.

Recall that the Russian invaders in Ukraine have already damaged 400 healthcare facilities, another 40 medical facilities have been destroyed to the ground and cannot be restored.

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