Kyiv [Ukraine], April 13 : A Russian missile attack on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Sumy has claimed the year's deadliest attack, killing at least 21 individuals, CNN reported, quoting local officials.
The attack happened when people were at Sunday church services.
Ukraine's Interior Minister stated that at least 83 people were hurt during the attack, including seven children, making it the worst attack on Ukrainian civilians since 2023.
The attack was denounced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and he also sent his condolences.
On X, Zelenskyy posted, "A terrible Russian ballistic missile attack on Sumy. Russian missiles hit a regular city street, regular life - residential buildings, schools, cars on the street. And that's on the day when people attend church - Palm Sunday, the feast of the Lord's Entry into Jerusalem. According to initial data, dozens of civilians were killed and injured. Only dirty scum can behave like this - killing ordinary people. My condolences to the families and loved ones. A rescue operation is ongoing. All the required services are working at the site."
The post continues, "The world must act strongly. The United States, Europe, all people in the world who wish this war and these murders to stop. Russia desires just this type of terror and is prolonging this war. Without pressure against Russia, peace is impossible. Negotiation has never halted ballistic missiles and air bombs. What is necessary is an attitude towards Russia that a terrorist is worthy of. I thank all those who are with Ukraine and support us in defending life.".
In the meantime, Foreign Affairs Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Russia has dismissed a US-supported bid for an unconditional ceasefire for the second straight month.
On X, Sybiha posted, "At this moment, on Palm Sunday morning, when the faithful go to church to commemorate the Lord's arrival in Jerusalem, Russia made a brutal attack on Sumy city's residential area. Many civilians have been killed and wounded. Making such an attack on a great Christian holiday is pure evil."
"For the second consecutive month, Russia has turned down the US offer of a complete ceasefire, which Ukraine agreed to on March 11 unconditionally. Instead, Russia increases its terror. We call upon partners to grant Ukraine more air defence systems and step up pressure on Moscow. Strength is the only language they can hear and the only way to end the gruesome terror," the post said.
