In one of the deadliest missile strikes in months, a Russian attack on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Sumy killed at least 34 people and injured nearly 120 on Sunday, according to Kyiv. The missiles struck a busy area in the city centre during Palm Sunday, prompting widespread condemnation from European and US leaders.
Ballistic Missiles Hit Heart of City
Ukrainian officials said Moscow launched two ballistic missiles targeting the city’s central zone. Graphic footage shared by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on social media showed scenes of devastation—mangled buses, burnt-out vehicles, and bodies scattered across smoke-filled streets.
“Only scoundrels can act like this. Taking the lives of ordinary people,” Zelenskyy posted. “And this is on a day when people go to church: Palm Sunday, the feast of the Lord’s Entry into Jerusalem.”
International Leaders React Strongly
The attack triggered swift condemnation from global leaders. US President Donald Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, said the strike “crosses any line of decency.”
The strike occurred just two days after US envoy Steve Witkoff visited Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin, advocating Trump’s bid to end the war. Trump has previously criticised Moscow for “bombing like crazy” in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy urged the United States and Europe to issue a “strong response” to Russia, stating: “Talking has never stopped ballistic missiles and bombs.”
Palm Sunday Bloodshed Sparks Global Outrage
The timing of the attack, coinciding with the Christian holy day of Palm Sunday, intensified international outrage. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the strike, saying it reflected Russia’s “blatant disregard for human lives, international law and the diplomatic efforts of President Trump.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack “appalling,” while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni labelled it a “cowardly” act by Russia.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the attack as “a barbaric attack, made even more vile as people gathered peacefully to celebrate Palm Sunday.”
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk added, “The Russian version of a ceasefire. Bloody Palm Sunday.” Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed the sentiment, noting that the missile assault “shows Russia’s true face.”
Call for Enhanced Defence Support
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said the attack, carried out “as many people made their way to prayer on Palm Sunday,” proves that “Putin underscores with blood that he seeks not peace but destruction.”
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof stressed the need for increased air defence systems for Ukraine, urging international support to help Kyiv defend itself “against this violence.”
As the war in Ukraine drags on, Sunday’s strike in Sumy marks a grim reminder of the escalating humanitarian toll and the pressing need for a global resolution.
