Palm Sunday: Russian Missile Kills 21 Civilians In Ukraine
About 21 civilians were killed in a Russian missile strike on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Sumy, acting mayor of the city, Artem Kobzar, has said.
According to the prosecutor’s office for the Sumy region, at least 21 people died and over 30 others, including five children, were injured when two ballistic missiles struck the city center on Sunday morning.
The attack occurred during Palm Sunday, a Christian holiday, as many residents gathered for church services. Ukrainian officials say the missiles hit a busy area filled with civilians, damaging residential buildings, vehicles, and nearby schools.
Confirming the incident in a post on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the assault, describing it as a deliberate act of terror.
“The missile hit an ordinary city street, ordinary life: houses, educational institutions, cars on the street,” Zelensky said in a statement on X.
“This horror must be met with a tough reaction from the world.”
According to CNN, rescue operations are underway, but officials warn that the death toll may rise as they continue to search the debris.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the strike “absolute evil,” especially on a religious holiday.
He urged international partners to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense systems and impose greater pressure on Moscow. “Strength is the only language they understand,” he said.
The Sumy region, located near the Russian border, has seen intensified attacks in recent weeks. Ukrainian officials believe Russia may be preparing for a broader offensive in the region.
President Zelensky reiterated his call for global action against Russia in order to stop their attcks on Ukraine
“Russia wants exactly this kind of terror and is dragging out this war. Without real pressure on the aggressor, peace is impossible,” he said.
“Ballistic missiles and bombs will not be stopped by words alone,” he added.
Reacting to the attack, Vice President of European Council, Kaja Kallas, expressed sadness over the incident and condemned Russia for the attack.
“Heartbreaking scenes from Sumy this morning as residents gathered for Palm Sunday only to be met by Russian missiles.
“Horrific example of Russia intensifying attacks while Ukraine has accepted an unconditional ceasefire. My thoughts are with the Ukrainian people today,” he said.
Also reacting, President of Moldova, Maia Sandu in a post on X, stated “Palm Sunday is a day of peace. This morning, as people gathered to pray, Russia bombed Sumy—killing and injuring civilians. Moldova mourns with Ukraine and urges more air defence to save lives.”
“The aggressor must be held accountable. There is no justification for such evil,” she added.
Palm Sunday: Russian Missile Kills 21 Civilians In Ukraine is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
