A devastating missile strike by Russian forces on a Ukrainian city resulted in the tragic deaths of over 30 civilians who had gathered to commemorate Palm Sunday, officials reported.
According to Ukrainian authorities, two Russian ballistic missiles targeted the city of Sumy at approximately 10:15 a.m. The aftermath of the attack revealed a scene of destruction, with buildings reduced to rubble, vehicles ablaze in the streets, and numerous bodies lying on the ground.
Acting Mayor Artem Kobzar expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “On this bright Palm Sunday, our community has suffered a terrible tragedy. Unfortunately, we already know of more than 20 deaths.”
The Prosecutor General’s Office confirmed that an initial investigation indicated at least 32 fatalities, with at least 84 individuals injured, including 10 children, as noted by Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko on social media.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that rescue operations were underway following the missile strikes that hit residential buildings, schools, and cars in the city.
He remarked, “According to preliminary information, dozens of civilians were killed and wounded. Only filthy scum can act like this — taking the lives of ordinary people.”
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Zelenskyy urged the U.S., Europe, and all nations that desire an end to this violence to “respond firmly” to the attack.
He added, “Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and aerial bombs. What’s needed is an attitude toward Russia that a terrorist deserves.”
This strike occurred less than 24 hours after Russia and Ukraine’s top diplomats blamed each other for breaching a tentative U.S.-brokered deal intended to pause attacks on energy infrastructure.
