According to local authorities, at least 31 people were killed and many more injured in a Russian attack on the eastern Ukrainian city of Sumy. Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha called it a “war crime.”
In a heavy Russian missile strike on the northeastern city of Sumy, at least 31 people were killed, according to Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. Many were injured while on the street, in cars, on public transport, and inside their homes, he said on Telegram. Images showed lifeless bodies on the streets, burning cars, and extensive destruction.
Police reported at least 83 people injured, including seven children.
Zelensky calls it a “terrible attack”
President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that rescue operations in Sumy were still ongoing. “Only filthy scum could act like this—taking the lives of ordinary people,” Zelensky said, calling for an international response. “Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and air-dropped bombs.”
Authorities establish crisis response unit
City officials announced that a crisis response unit had been set up. Many buildings were damaged. Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha described the attack as a “war crime” and “absolute evil” committed on a major Christian holiday.
Sybiha criticized Russia’s refusal to accept a U.S. ceasefire proposal made on March 11. “Instead, Russia is expanding its terror,” he said.
Ukraine calls for more support from the West
The Deputy Foreign Minister urged Western partners to provide Ukraine with additional air defense systems and to increase pressure on Moscow. “Strength is the only language they understand—and the only way to put an end to this horrific terror,” he said.
Andriy Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation, linked the attack in timing to the visit of U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff to Russia. “Russia builds its so-called diplomacy on attacks against civilians,” Kovalenko wrote on Telegram.
On Friday, Witkoff had met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the ongoing Russian war of aggression against Ukraine—now in its fourth year—among the topics discussed.
