Zelensky Calls Russia “Scum” After Deadly Palm Sunday Missile Strike in Sumy

A Russian missile attack in Sumy, Ukraine, killed at least 32 civilians on Palm Sunday, eliciting condemnation from President Zelensky. This marks the second significant missile strike on Ukrainian cities in April. U.S. ceasefire negotiations remain stalled. The ongoing military actions emphasize the urgent need for international pressure on Russia to achieve peace.
On Palm Sunday, a Russian missile attack in Sumy, Ukraine, resulted in the death of at least 32 individuals. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the action, labeling it a “horrific” strike targeting civilian areas. This incident marks the second significant ballistic missile assault on a Ukrainian city within April, following the attack on Kryvyi Rih earlier in the month.
The missile assault aimed at residential structures, vehicles, and educational facilities, leading to numerous casualties and ongoing rescue operations. As reported, 99 people, including 11 children, sustained injuries, with local emergency services confirming these numbers.
Ukrainian military intelligence indicated that Russia deployed Iskander-M and KN-23 ballistic missiles in the assault. Zelensky passionately criticized the attack, stating, “Only filthy scum can act like this—taking the lives of ordinary people.”
The U.S. has sought to broker a ceasefire, but efforts have stalled amid renewed discussions between American and Russian officials. Notably, Trump’s envoy to the Middle East met with Putin to address the situation. A State Department representative emphasized the necessity for both countries to make compromises.
Recent missile attacks on Ukrainian cities suggest a pattern of aggression from Russia that coincides with diplomatic overtures. The civilian impact continues to escalate, highlighting a pressing need for international intervention. Andriy Kovalenko pointed out that such strikes on civilians undermine Russia’s diplomatic stance, asserting that peaceful resolutions cannot be achieved without significant pressure on Russian authorities.
Responses to these strikes have been widespread, with officials and advocates from across the globe calling for a firm response to the aggressions. Zelensky reiterated the need for immediate action to end the conflict, stressing that without international pressure, lasting peace remains unattainable.
The missile attack on Sumy underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to cease hostilities. With significant civilian casualties and continued military aggression, international stakeholders are called upon to act decisively. President Zelensky’s remarks reflect the broader sentiment of condemnation and necessity for collaborative international action against the conflict.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com