Russian Missile Strike in Sumy Raises Global Condemnation Amid Ongoing War

On Palm Sunday, a devastating missile strike in the Ukrainian city of Sumy resulted in the deaths of at least 32 individuals, including two children. The attack, which occurred around 10.30 am while people were preparing for Easter celebrations, involved two ballistic missiles hitting the center of the city. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that numerous casualties arose from the strike, which also left 84 others injured, including ten children. This incident marks one of the most deadly assaults this year and is particularly significant as it follows a recently initiated ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. The northeastern city has experienced increased attacks from Russian forces over recent weeks, with the latest strike coinciding with a diplomatic visit by a US envoy.

President Zelensky emphasized the necessity for global action against such Russian aggressions, asserting that silence and indifference are unacceptable. He stated that Russian strikes should be met with unequivocal condemnation and that sustained pressure is essential to compel Russia to end the conflict and ensure the safety of civilians. Earlier in the year, Putin expressed a willingness to entertain a brief ceasefire; however, he insisted it occur on Russia's terms. He broadly supported a US proposal for a 30-day truce while underlining conditions aimed at establishing a lasting peace and addressing the root causes of the conflict.

In a recent address, Putin reiterated his position against a temporary ceasefire without assurances that Ukraine would be barred from joining NATO. He also affirmed that Russia will not relinquish any territory acquired from Ukraine, which borders it to the east and northeast. During discussions with his ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Putin underscored that, while Russia is open to a ceasefire, it must pave the way for a lasting resolution to the crisis. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that efforts to improve bilateral relations and develop settlement proposals for Ukraine are ongoing, indicating a complex and time-consuming process.