"We Should Follow Israel's Path": Military Personnel Explain How to Solve the Air Raid Shelter Dilemma
On August 4, Ukrainian Armed Forces soldier Dmytro Bekov discussed the issue of Kyiv's air raid shelters on the "Kyiv 24" program, stating that Ukrainian civilians need underground shelters to withstand Russian missile attacks and that Israel's experience should be emulated.
He pointed out that mobile ground shelters cannot protect against cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, or Shahed drones.
"These shelters can also be destroyed, and people inside them are highly likely to die. The only thing that can save lives is specially built underground shelters; alternatively, ground shelters can be buried underground."
According to him, ground shelters can only protect against shrapnel and offer no protection against other threats.
"We've seen many people die while heading to shelters—killed by missiles or shockwaves. This is technically challenging, but we must go down this path."
Bekov cited Israel in the 1960s as an example: Israeli building codes stipulate that no residential building may be approved for occupancy without a designated underground air raid shelter.
"Therefore, in Israel, people can reach shelters in just 30 seconds. We should strive toward this goal as well."
Bekov believes all buildings' basements should be repaired and made usable; for buildings without basements, underground space must be excavated or alternative solutions implemented.
"Basements cannot withstand direct hits, but they at least provide a chance of survival when struck or hit by shockwaves."
Previously, Ukraine's Ombudsman for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubynets, reported receiving multiple complaints about people being blocked from entering air raid shelters. He emphasized that air raid shelters must be open to anyone seeking safety—not limited to residents of the building, nor should those bringing pets be turned away.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1872581420689475/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.