22

A deadly missile strike hit the city of Sumy, Ukraine, on Sunday, April 13. The attack came during Palm Sunday, a day of religious celebration for many Ukrainians. At least 34 people died, and more than 100 others were injured in the strike. Two Russian missiles hit the center of the city just as people were gathering for church and family events.

The scene quickly turned into chaos. Emergency crews rushed to help. Roads were filled with smoke and debris. A trolleybus was destroyed. Buildings were reduced to rubble. Among the victims were children, students, and elderly people who had come out to celebrate a peaceful day.

Peaceful Holiday Turns to Horror

Palm Sunday is one of the most important Christian holidays in Ukraine. It marks the start of Holy Week and brings families together. On this day, people go to church, share meals, and spend time with loved ones.

But this year, the day turned into a nightmare. The first missile struck just after 10 a.m. The second hit minutes later. Both missiles landed in areas where people had gathered in large numbers.

One of the missiles hit a public bus filled with people. Another struck a nearby apartment building. Windows shattered. Walls collapsed. Fire spread. People screamed and ran for shelter.

A City in Shock

Local officials called it one of the worst attacks on Sumy since the start of the war. Acting Mayor Artem Kobzar said the city is in mourning. “It’s a terrible tragedy,” he said. “So many innocent lives were lost on a day that should have been peaceful.”

Hospitals quickly filled with the wounded. Doctors worked nonstop. Some patients had burns, others had broken bones or breathing problems from smoke and dust.

Volunteers lined up to donate blood. Others brought food and water for survivors. The city came together, even in the middle of pain and loss.

President Zelenskyy Speaks Out

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly condemned the attack. He said Russia had shown, once again, that it had no respect for human life or international law.

“This was not a mistake. It was planned,” Zelenskyy said in a video message. “Only heartless people strike civilians on a religious holiday.”

He called for more global pressure on Russia. He asked other nations to treat Russia like a terrorist state and increase support for Ukraine. He also praised emergency workers for their bravery and promised help for families of the victims.

Anger Grows Around the World

Leaders across the world reacted with shock and anger. The attack came only a day after new talks to stop strikes on civilian areas had failed.

French President Emmanuel Macron called the attack “shameful” and blamed Russia for the growing violence. British officials called for new sanctions. Other European countries also showed support for Ukraine and asked for stronger international action.

The United Nations reminded both sides that civilians should never be targets in war. They urged Russia to follow international rules and avoid attacks on public places.

Why the Attack Matters

This strike shows that peace is still far away. Despite past efforts to stop the war, violence continues. Many people had hoped for calm during the Easter season. Instead, they are now mourning loved ones and trying to rebuild their homes.

Experts say attacks on cities are likely to continue. Some believe Russia wants to scare people and break their spirit. But many Ukrainians say they will not give up.

A Call for Justice and Peace

Ukrainian officials say they will collect evidence to share with global courts. They believe Russia has broken several laws by hitting civilian areas. Many human rights groups also want full investigations.

The people of Sumy are asking the world not to forget them. They want peace. They want justice. And they want their children to grow up without fear.

Time for Action

The Sumy missile strike is a painful reminder of how war harms innocent lives. Children, families, and the elderly should never become targets. The world must act. Words of support are not enough.

As the death toll rises and the rubble is cleared, the people of Ukraine continue to hope. They want the war to end. They want safety. And most of all, they want peace.