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Church in Sumy, Ukraine, Hit by Russian Missile Strike: Dozens Dead
Sumy, Ukraine – A recent Russian missile strike has targeted a church in the Sumy region of Ukraine, resulting in numerous casualties. Emergency services report at least 32 fatalities, including two children, following the attack which utilized two ballistic missiles. According to a statement from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, approximately 99 individuals sustained injuries in the assault, among them 11 children. President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced strong condemnation on social media, decrying the attack as the work of “filthy scum” and lamenting the loss of civilian lives.
Aftermath of the Attack
Online visuals depict substantial plumes of smoke billowing from structures as firefighters combat the blaze. Images from the scene appear to show bodies covered with fabric. The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, has issued a statement condemning the Russian aggression, expressing his “appalled” reaction to the deadly incident.
International Condemnation and Calls for Ceasefire
Sir Keir Starmer stated, “This latest lethal assault serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing violence inflicted by Putin.” He further added, “President Zelensky has demonstrated his dedication to peace; President Putin must now agree to a complete and immediate ceasefire without preconditions – as Ukraine has done.”
Zelensky Urges Firm Global Response
Mr. Zelensky asserted the futility of negotiations in the face of continued missile and aerial bombardment, arguing that “Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and aerial bombs. What’s needed is an attitude toward Russia that a terrorist deserves.”
He reiterated his call for a robust global response to the aggression, emphasizing that decisive action, rather than dialogue alone, is necessary to deter further attacks: “Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and aerial bombs. What’s needed is an attitude toward Russia that a terrorist deserves.”
Context of Escalating Conflict
This incident follows a large-scale Russian missile attack earlier in the week targeting Kryvyi Rih, President Zelensky’s hometown. That prior assault resulted in the deaths of 20 individuals, highlighting the escalating intensity of the conflict.
Accusations of violating a tentative agreement to halt attacks on energy infrastructure have been exchanged between both sides, further complicating efforts to de-escalate tensions.
Diplomatic Efforts and Stalled Peace Negotiations
Amidst the escalating violence, US envoy Steve Witkoff traveled to Russia this week to urge the Kremlin to engage in peace negotiations. The Trump administration has continued its pursuit of a peace settlement in the region.
Moscow has previously rejected a US-supported proposal for an unconditional 30-day cessation of hostilities. Furthermore, Russia has appeared hesitant to fully implement a more limited truce in the Black Sea region, indicating a desire for sanctions relief as a precondition.
Macron: Attack Undermines Peace Efforts
French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the latest Russian offensive undermines ongoing peace discussions.
In a public statement, President Macron declared, “Everyone knows: This war was initiated by Russia alone. And today, it is evident that Russia alone chooses to prolong it – with blatant disregard for human lives, international law, and the diplomatic endeavors of President Trump.”