Russia Investigates Deaths of Nine Newborns at Siberian Hospital Amid Negligence Probe

Russian authorities have opened a criminal investigation into the deaths of nine newborns at a Siberian maternity hospital in Novokuznetsk, with medical records seized and staff questioned. The hospital suspended admissions due to respiratory infections and quarantine measures. The chief doctor and acting head of intensive care were detained on suspicion of negligence. The incident sparked widespread public outrage and raised concerns about Russia's healthcare system and its efforts to increase the birth rate, a government priority.