Russian Missile Strike on Sumy Kills 31, Ukraine Says
A Russian ballistic missile attack on Ukraine’s northeastern city of Sumy has killed at least 31 people and wounded 84, according to Ukrainian officials.
The strike, which occurred in the city center on Palm Sunday, underscores the persistent violence in the region amid stalled diplomatic efforts to end the war.
Details of the Attack
The missiles struck Sumy at approximately 10:15 a.m., as residents gathered to mark the start of Palm Sunday.
Ukraine’s state emergency service reported that the attack hit civilian areas, stating:
People were injured right in the middle of the street, in cars, public transport, and in houses.
Ukraine's State Emergency Service
Videos shared by local authorities showed debris-strewn streets, damaged vehicles, and emergency responders aiding the wounded. Acting Mayor Artem Kobzar described the incident as a “terrible tragedy” for the community.
Located 30 miles from Russia’s border, Sumy has faced increasing attacks in recent weeks. Ukrainian officials have warned of a potential Russian offensive in the area, particularly after Moscow regained ground in the nearby Kursk region.
Official Responses
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that the death toll included two children, with 10 children among the wounded. In a social media post, he stated:
It is crucial that the world does not stay silent or indifferent. Russian strikes deserve nothing but condemnation.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy
He called for increased international pressure on Russia to end the conflict.
The attack followed a meeting two days earlier between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, part of U.S.-led efforts to broker a ceasefire.
Zelenskyy noted, “Talking has never stopped ballistic missiles and bombs,” highlighting the gap between negotiations and ongoing violence.
French President Emmanuel Macron also commented on the strike, “Everyone knows it is Russia alone that wants this war.”
Russia’s Ministry of Defence did not immediately respond to the allegations but reported Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy infrastructure the same day.
Broader Context
The strike comes amid intensified fighting, with Russia claiming control of Yelyzavetivka village in Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
Ukraine has not yet commented on this claim.
Both sides continue to exchange attacks despite a U.S.-brokered agreement to pause strikes on energy infrastructure, illustrating the difficulties in achieving a lasting ceasefire.
Ukraine has endorsed a broader U.S. ceasefire proposal, but has repeatedly violated its commitments regarding a 30-day stop on targeting energy infrastructure, slowing progress.