On March 24, a Russian missile strike on Sumy injured 88 civilians, including 17 children, despite ongoing peace talks. The attack targeted residential areas and disrupted essential services. Eyewitnesses and government officials reported evidence of war crimes, while misinformation was spread by Russian propagandists to justify the assault. Prime Minister Shmyhal urged increased international pressure on Russia during this humanitarian crisis.

On March 24, Russia launched a missile strike in a residential area of Sumy, resulting in 88 injuries, including 17 children, as reported by the Sumy City Council. This assault occurred amid peace dialogues between Russia and the United States in Saudi Arabia, despite an announced 30-day ceasefire regarding energy infrastructure targets, which Russia appears to have ignored, continuing its campaign against Ukrainian civilians.

The missile impacted a school and multiple apartment buildings. Volodymyr Artiukh, head of the Sumy Regional Military Administration, confirmed that children were sheltered at the time of the attack. Local officials indicated that the assault disrupted essential utilities, leaving eight buildings without gas, 18 without hot water and heating, and six without cold water. Crews from the electricity company are currently evaluating the extent of the damage.

Authorities, along with law enforcement, are gathering evidence of this assault, with the Security Service of Ukraine leading an investigation classified as a war crime. Eyewitness accounts relay that numerous individuals were injured by shattered glass from the buildings. Russian forces targeted a densely populated area that included educational institutions and a hospital.

A Sumy resident remarked, “There were children everywhere,” reflecting the tragic scale of the incident. One survivor recounted the devastation, stating, “I didn’t understand anything, just a loud noise, an explosion… nothing was left.” Another victim expressed concern for her family members amidst the chaos, revealing, “I can’t find anyone – I don’t know if he saved her or not.”

The Center for Countering Disinformation reported that Russian propagandists are disseminating misinformation, alleging that the strike targeted a military base, thereby attempting to shift blame for civilian casualties onto Ukrainian military actions. This tactic aims to obscure the reality of the destruction inflicted upon civilian infrastructure.

Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal condemned Russia’s actions, underscoring, “Ukraine seeks peace, while Russia once again shows its desire to continue terror.” He called upon the international community to intensify pressure on Russia to curtail its aggression and uphold justice for the lives affected in Ukraine.

The missile strike in Sumy highlights the ongoing violence against civilians in Ukraine, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis amidst stalled peace negotiations. With multiple injuries, disruption of essential services, and a narrative of misinformation from Russian sources, the situation remains dire. Continued international pressure on Russia is crucial for the safety and protection of Ukrainian citizens as the conflict endures.

Original Source: euromaidanpress.com

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