The strike comes less than a day after Russia and Ukraine’s top diplomats accused each other of violating a tentative US-brokered deal to pause strikes on energy infrastructure, underscoring the challenges of negotiating an end to the 3-year-old war.
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Over 30 people were killed after a Russian missile struck the Ukrainian city of Sumy on Sunday, local officials report.
Two ballistic missiles reportedly struck the heart of the city as people gathered to celebrate Palm Sunday. Videos circulating on social media show the aftermath of the attack on the city centre.
“On this bright Palm Sunday, our community has suffered a terrible tragedy,” acting mayor Artem Kobzar said in a statement. “Unfortunately, we already know of more than 20 deaths.”
Local media report that the death toll reached at least 32 killed and 84 more injured, including ten children.
Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy said rescue efforts were ongoing and described the attack as “horrific” and added that “only filthy scum can act like this.”
Zelenskyy also called for a strong global response to the attack. “Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and aerial bombs. What’s needed is an attitude toward Russia that a terrorist deserves.”
French President Emmanuel Macron also condemned the attack, saying "this war was initiated by Russia alone. And today, it is clear that Russia alone chooses to continue it."
The Ukrainian Air Force warned of a ballistic missile to Sumy at 10:17am local time. By 10:52am, local officials reported “many dead.”
Palm Sunday is a Christian holiday celebrated a week before Easter. Many Ukrainians attend church on the holiday.