A Russian ballistic missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy in northeastern Ukraine has claimed the lives of at least 31 people and injured dozens of others, according to local officials. The strikes targeted the city at approximately 10:15 AM (07:15 GMT) when civilians were congregated to celebrate Palm Sunday, which is the first day of Christian Holy Week.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said two children were among the victims, with at least 84 people injured in what he called a “horrific” attack. In a social media statement, Zelenskyy highlighted the need for international condemnation of the Russian attacks, appealing to the world not to stay silent. He urged more pressure on Russia to stop the war and protect civilians.
Photos and videos posted on official sources showed scenes of chaos in central Sumy, with bodies lying among the ruins and smoke billowing from the site of the missile strike. Acting Mayor Artem Kobzar sounded deeply saddened in a social media post, referring to the tragedy as a tragic event on a day that should have been for celebration.
This assault occurs amid increased efforts by the United States, led by President Donald Trump, to mediate a ceasefire in the conflict that has been running for more than three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Trump envoy Steve Witkoff recently sat down with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, with reported talk lasting more than four hours. Trump said that though negotiations could be making strides, there is a time when action must be taken.
After the missile attack, Zelenskyy commented that negotiations have not stopped the fighting, stressing that a strong stance must be taken against Russia, which he has branded a terrorist state.
French President Emmanuel Macron also added his voice, stating that it is evident Russia alone wants to extend the war, paying no attention to human life or international law. This came after the escalation of hostilities despite a US-mediated deal that sought to suspend strikes on energy infrastructure.
At the same time, Russia’s Ministry of Defence asserted that Ukraine launched two strikes on Russian energy facilities over the past day and reported the occupation of Yelyzavetivka village in Ukraine’s Donetsk region. These claims have not yet been commented on by the Ukrainian government, although Russian troops have taken incremental advances in eastern Ukraine in recent months.
There are fears that Russia is planning a fresh offensive to put further pressure on Ukraine and improve its bargaining position, with estimates that Russia currently controls around 20 percent of Ukrainian territory in the east and south.
