'Russia is ruled by murderers': Western leaders react to Russia's deadly strike on Sumy

European Union officials

Katarína Mathernová. One of the first European officials to respond was the EU Ambassador to Ukraine. In a Facebook post, she urged increased pressure on Moscow.

“This is a terrible tragedy. Attacking churchgoers on Palm Sunday is a war crime. Nothing seems to be sacred to the Russians — neither churches nor Ukrainian children. Europe is increasing pressure on Russia and supporting Ukraine in every possible way. It’s time for the whole world to wake up. Heartfelt condolences to all the families!” the Ambassador wrote.

Kaja Kallas. The Estonian Prime Minister, writing on X, voiced her support for Ukraine: “Heartbreaking scenes from Sumy this morning as residents gathered for Palm Sunday only to be met by Russian missiles.”

“Horrific example of Russia intensifying attacks while Ukraine has accepted an unconditional ceasefire. My thoughts are with the Ukrainian people today,” she posted.

António Costa. The President of the European Council expressed outrage over Russia’s deadly missile strike on downtown Sumy.

“Russia continues its campaign of violence, showing once again that this war exists and endures only because Russia chooses so,” Costa said.

NATO

NATO Spokesperson Allison Hart offered condolences to Ukrainians after the Russian strike.

“Horrific scenes from the center of Sumy where Russian ballistic missiles killed dozens and severely injured many more ordinary civilians. Our thoughts are with the Ukrainian people on what is a sacred day for so many,” she wrote.

France

French President Emmanuel Macron commented on Russia’s attack on Ukraine in a post on X, which he published in Ukrainian.

Macron expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people and said decisive action is needed to force Russia to stop its aggression.

“Everyone knows: this war was initiated by Russia alone. And today, it is clear that Russia alone chooses to continue it — with blatant disregard for human lives, international law, and the diplomatic efforts of President Trump,” Macron wrote.

Lithuania

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda called the Russian strike on Sumy another despicable war crime committed by Russia.

"This is a slap in the face to everyone who seeks and desires peace. The civilized world must use force to stop these barbarians who are killing civilians and children," Nausėda wrote on X.

Czech Republic

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský said after the missile strike on Sumy that Russia is run by murderers.

"My thoughts are with the victims and all those affected by the heinous attack on the city of Suma. Russia does not want to change; Russia does not want peace. It is ruled by murderers who show every day that they are not seeking peace. Czechia stands with Ukraine," the Minister said.

Finland

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen reacted to the Russian missile strike on Sumy in a social media post.

“Horrific news from Sumy in Ukraine, where Russian missiles killed tens of people, including children on their way to church for Palm Sunday. My thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones. The world has waited for more than a month for Russia to agree on a ceasefire. Yet it continues to bomb civilians,” Valtonen wrote.

Estonia

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna expressed condolences to the families of those killed in Sumy.

“There are not enough words in the world to describe the inhumanity and evil of Russia,” the foreign minister said.

Moldova

Moldovan President Maia Sandu, responding to Russia’s terrorist attack, called on international partners to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses.

“Palm Sunday is a day of peace. This morning, as people gathered to pray, Russia bombed Sumy, killing and injuring civilians. Moldova mourns with Ukraine and urges more air defense to save lives,” Sandu emphasized.

Russia’s missile strike on Sumy

On April 13, Russian forces carried out a missile strike on the center of Sumy. They launched two ballistic missiles. At the time of the strike, the city center was crowded.

According to local authorities, Russia used a missile carrying cluster munitions. The projectile exploded in the air.

As of the latest reports, 32 people were killed in Sumy, including two children. Another 99 people were injured, 11 of them children. Most casualties occurred inside a trolleybus that happened to be passing by.

Russia launched the attack on one of the holiest Christian holidays — Palm Sunday.

For more on the aftermath of the Russian missile attack on Sumy, read RBC-Ukraine's report.