Russian Missiles Attack Ukraine Sumy: 88 Injured, Including 17 Children

Ukrainian officials stated that Russia launched missile attacks on densely populated areas in the city center of Sumy, northeastern Ukraine, on Monday, March 24th. The attack resulted in at least 88 people injured, including 17 children.

The strike affected multiple high-rise residential buildings and two schools. According to images posted on social media platform X by Kyiv Post, thick smoke billowed from the city center, flames spread, and several buildings’ exteriors were visibly damaged, with a five-story residential building emitting thick black smoke.

Sumy Governor Volodymyr Artiukh, speaking on national television, mentioned that most children were evacuated to bomb shelters in time, which saved their lives. He said, “I was on-site, and I saw rescue workers clearing the schools and evacuating the children to safety.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy strongly condemned the attack in his nightly address, calling it another instance of “pain and destruction that Ukraine never wanted to endure.” He emphasized, “Russia is the sole perpetrator of this war, continuing to torment our people and the world.”

The attack occurred while officials from Russia and the United States were meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss potential ceasefire agreements. Zelenskiy urged the international community to take decisive actions to compel Russia to accept a peaceful solution. He stated, “We stand ready to support any strong diplomatic measures that can effectively promote peace.”

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha publicly criticized Russia for its inconsistent actions. He pointed out that while Russia talks about peace on one front, it launches brutal attacks on densely populated residential areas on the other, stating, “Rather than issuing hollow peace statements, Russia should immediately cease the bombing of our cities and end the war against civilians.”

Sumy’s acting Mayor Artem Kobzar revealed on Telegram that an industrial facility was also targeted in the attack but did not disclose its specific name.

Sumy is situated only about 30 kilometers from the Russian border and has long been subjected to drone and missile attacks.

(This article referenced relevant reports from Reuters)