Sumy: Ukraine announced on Sunday that a Russian missile strike resulted in at least 34 fatalities in the northeastern city of Sumy, which is situated approximately 31 kilometers from the Russian border. A statement from Ukraine's State Emergency Service on Telegram revealed that among the deceased were two children. The service also noted that the number of injured has increased to 117, including 15 children, and that search and rescue operations are ongoing at the site.
According to Anadolu Agency, acting Sumy Mayor Artem Kobzar remarked on Telegram that the attack coincided with Palm Sunday, a significant day for Christians leading up to Easter, describing it as a "terrible tragedy" for the community. The Sumy City Council subsequently declared three days of mourning in the region, commencing on Monday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took to X to urge the international community to react to the attacks, advocating for condemnation and increased pressure on Russia. He emphasized the necessity for security guarantees for Ukraine and argued that without sufficient support, Moscow will persist in prolonging the conflict. Zelenskyy called for decisive action to prevent further impunity for Russian aggression.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also expressed on X that Russia rejected a US proposal for a full ceasefire for the second consecutive month, despite Kyiv's unconditional acceptance of the proposal on March 11. Sybiha urged international partners to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities and to heighten pressure on Moscow, stating that strength is the only language understood by Russia.
Ukraine's Defense Intelligence reported that the Sumy attack involved two Iskander-M ballistic missiles launched from Russia's Voronezh and Kursk regions. Russian authorities have not yet commented on the incident or the allegations.
European leaders responded with strong condemnation of the missile strike. President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the solidarity and support of Ukraine's allies. French President Emmanuel Macron held Russia solely accountable for the ongoing war, accusing Moscow of disregarding international law and diplomatic efforts. He called for stringent measures to enforce a ceasefire and affirmed France's commitment to Ukraine.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his dismay at the attack and emphasized President Zelenskyy's dedication to peace, urging Russia to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen labeled the attack as 'barbaric' and reiterated that Russia remains the aggressor in violation of international law. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the situation in Sumy as 'horrific' and urged for a comprehensive ceasefire, highlighting Russia's continued aggression.
Denmark, Estonia, and the Netherlands echoed similar sentiments. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for revealing Russia's 'true face,' while Estonian President Alar Karis called the strike 'heartbreaking.' Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof underlined the importance of strengthening Ukrainian air defenses and increasing pressure on Russia.
Former US National Security Advisor Keith Kellogg condemned the attack as 'beyond decency,' emphasizing the inappropriateness of targeting civilians. He stated that President Trump is actively working to bring an end to the conflict.