Firefighters are seen at the scene of a devastating Russian missile strike in central Sumy, Ukraine on April 13, 2025, amidst Russia’s ongoing attacks on Ukraine. The attack targeted residents gathered for Sunday church services, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 32 individuals, including two children, marking the deadliest incident in the conflict this year. Additionally, 99 people, including 11 children, sustained injuries in the strikes on the city’s center, as reported by the Interior Ministry of Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelensky condemned the heinous strikes, attributing them to ballistic missiles and urging for a resolute global response to the attack. Zelensky emphasized the need for decisive action against the aggressor, stating, “Talking has never stopped ballistic missiles and bombs. We need to treat Russia as a terrorist deserves.”
The international community has voiced strong condemnation of the strikes, with Keith Kellogg, the Trump administration’s special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, denouncing the attack as a violation of decency. The strike occurred on Palm Sunday, a significant day for church attendance, resulting in extensive damage to buildings and tragic loss of life.
Preliminary assessments suggest that cluster munitions were employed in the attack, demonstrating a deliberate targeting of civilians. The devastating impact of the attack, including multiple casualties and severe destruction, underscores the urgent need for a coordinated response to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
Videos capturing the moment of impact in Sumy show a loud noise followed by plumes of black smoke rising. Footage shared by the region’s military administration captures a Russian missile hitting a building with a deafening boom. Emergency sirens wail as people scramble in panic, some seen injured on the ground. One video shared by Zelensky shows a woman with a blood-covered face being assisted. Images reveal body bags and a damaged trolleybus possibly containing bodies as emergency responders react to the assault. Artyukh, the military administration head, confirmed significant casualties among trolleybus passengers.
European Union’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas denounced the attack as Russia escalates violence despite Ukraine’s acceptance of a ceasefire. French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for decisive action to secure peace. Ukrainian President Zelensky criticized Putin for disregarding ceasefire proposals, highlighting Russia’s continued aggression.
Recent meetings between US and Russian officials, including a lengthy discussion with President Putin, have fueled speculation about potential progress. President Trump expressed optimism about Ukraine-Russia relations but emphasized the need for concrete actions.
The UN’s Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine strongly condemned the Sumy attack as a violation of international law protecting civilians. Russia’s intensified air and missile strikes in Sumy and other regions have resulted in casualties and heightened tensions.
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