CNN —

Deadly Missile Strike in Sumy, Ukraine

A missile attack by Russia targeted churchgoers in the northeastern Ukrainian city of Sumy on Palm Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least 34 individuals. This incident marks the deadliest assault of the ongoing conflict this year.

Among the victims were two children, and a total of 117 people sustained injuries, according to reports from Ukraine’s State Emergency Service.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that ballistic missiles were used in the assault and called for a unified global response. He emphasized that without adequate pressure on Russia, achieving peace would be unattainable.

The international community has denounced the attack, with Keith Kellogg, special envoy to Ukraine during the Trump administration, stating that the assault “crosses any line of decency” and is a significant breach of acceptable conduct.

The missile strikes coincided with one of the busiest church services of the year, as locals gathered for Palm Sunday. Eyewitness accounts described a two-phase attack, with subsequent explosions aimed at maximizing civilian casualties.

The United Nations’ humanitarian coordinator for Ukraine condemned the strike on Sumy, asserting that international law forbids attacks on civilians and their infrastructure. In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its air assaults, raising concerns as the conflict continues.