Official: Azerbaijan helps rehabilitate hundreds of Ukrainian children

Ukraine’s full-scale war with Russia has left more than 2,000 children injured, with Azerbaijan playing a key role in helping rehabilitate hundreds of them, Ukraine’s Minister of Health Viktor Liashko said.

He explained that the injuries were caused by missile and drone strikes, bombings, shelling, explosions, and incidents during evacuations and other war-related situations.

"Tragically, around 94% of these children suffered mine-blast and gunshot wounds, most with multiple or complex injuries that require long-term treatment, rehabilitation, and psychological support. Among them are dozens of cases of limb amputations, most often affecting children aged 7 to 14," the minister noted.

The minister added that since the start of the war, approximately 445 Ukrainian children have been sent to Azerbaijan for rehabilitation and recovery.

"These are children affected by the war and those who require psychological support and restorative care. We express our deep gratitude to the people and Government of Azerbaijan for their compassion, solidarity, and unwavering support in helping Ukrainian children recover, heal, and regain hope for the future," Liashko said.

In a broader context of bilateral cooperation, Liashko noted that Ukraine and Azerbaijan plan to sign a roadmap on healthcare collaboration within the next three months.

The document, which will outline key areas of joint action, is expected to be developed based on the results of recent talks and implemented within a year.

The minister emphasised the importance of maintaining active engagement between both sides and urged the practical realisation of the commitments reached.

By Jeyhun Aghazada