Russian Missile Strike on Sumy Kills 34, Sparks Global Outrage Amid Palm Sunday Tragedy
Ukraine urges global response to what President Zelenskyy calls a “deliberate act of terror”
Sumy, Ukraine – April 13, 2025 — At least 34 civilians, including two children, were killed and over 100 others injured in a devastating Russian missile attack on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Sumy. The attack, which struck during Palm Sunday celebrations, is being described as the deadliest assault on civilians in Ukraine so far this year.
The strike occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. local time, when two Russian ballistic missiles hit the city center, targeting a trolleybus and a university conference center. The timing of the assault, during one of the holiest days in the Christian calendar, has intensified calls for international condemnation and swift action.
Ukrainian Leaders Condemn ‘Deliberate Terror’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the attack as a “horrific act of deliberate terror,” stressing the need for a stronger global response.
“Missiles hit a peaceful city street filled with people celebrating Palm Sunday — a day of hope and renewal,” Zelenskyy posted on social media. “This is what terror looks like. The world must respond not with words, but with decisive action.”
Emergency services reported that 117 people were injured, including 15 children. The death toll is expected to rise.
Emotional Accounts from the Ground
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Volodymyr Niankin, a local filmmaker and survivor of the attack, recounted the terrifying moment the missiles struck. One missile destroyed the arts center he ran, moments before a children’s theater performance was scheduled.
“My seven-year-old son was nearby and injured by debris while running for shelter,” Niankin said. “This was not an accident. It was a calculated strike on civilians. It feels like genocide.”
Global Leaders React with Anger and Condemnation
The international community reacted swiftly, with leaders from the U.S., Europe, and the UK condemning the attack.
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was “appalled” and demanded an immediate, unconditional ceasefire.
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French President Emmanuel Macron blamed Moscow directly: “Everyone knows it is Russia alone that wants to prolong this war.”
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EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the attack “heartbreaking and horrific,” while EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová labeled it a “war crime.”
Trump Administration Under Pressure
The assault comes as the Trump administration attempts to negotiate a ceasefire. Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, condemned the strike, calling it “beyond the pale.”
However, images of Trump’s other envoy, Steve Witkoff, shaking hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg just two days before the attack have sparked backlash in Ukraine.
Trump expressed frustration with Russia’s ongoing bombardment, stating he was “pissed off,” but has yet to announce concrete actions in response.
Russia Escalates Despite Ceasefire Talks
Despite U.S.-led efforts to pause hostilities — especially strikes on energy infrastructure — Russia has escalated its attacks. Since Ukraine agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire last month, Moscow has launched over 70 missiles and 2,200 drones, killing civilians across multiple cities.
Russia currently occupies approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory in the east and south. Ukrainian military intelligence reports that the Sumy strike was carried out using Iskander-M missiles launched from Russia’s Voronezh and Kursk regions, allegedly by the 112th and 448th missile brigades.
Zelenskyy Urges Allies to Strengthen Ukraine’s Air Defenses
President Zelenskyy renewed calls for increased military aid, particularly advanced air defense systems like the U.S.-made Patriot systems.
“Talks don’t stop missiles,” he said. “Only a firm, united stand against terrorism can protect our people.”