Deadly Strike in Sumy: Ukraine Mourns Amid Religious Holiday

At least 32 people, including two children, were killed and more than 80 others injured in a Russian ballistic missile strike on Sumy, a city in northeastern Ukraine, on Sunday, April 13. The attack occurred late in the morning in the bustling city center, as many residents were out celebrating Palm Sunday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strike as a “barbaric act”, stating that the missiles targeted “an ordinary street, ordinary life: homes, schools, cars on the road.” He added on social media that “only terrorists strike during a religious celebration,” and called for “a strong response from the international community.”

A City Under Growing Pressure

Located just 50 kilometers from the Russian border, Sumy has faced repeated attacks in recent weeks, as Moscow attempts to regain a foothold in this region, which it partially withdrew from in the spring of 2022. A day before the missile strike, Russia claimed to have seized a nearby village — a rare advance in the area.

According to Ukraine’s Interior Minister, two ballistic missiles hit the city center directly, causing extensive damage. Images circulating on social media — though not yet verified — show charred vehicles, destroyed buildings, and thick columns of black smoke. The Ukrainian prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into possible war crimes.

Acting Sumy mayor Artem Kobzar described the incident as “a tragedy for the entire community,” while Ukraine’s human rights ombudsman confirmed the complete destruction of the regional human rights center, located at the impact site. Victims were also reported among public transport passengers and nearby residents.

International leaders were quick to express their solidarity with Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron declared that “Russia alone chose this war, and continues to pursue it,” calling for firm measures to enforce a ceasefire. Leaders from Moldova, the Baltic States, and the European Union also voiced their support, which President Zelensky publicly acknowledged.