Ukraine vows fierce retribution against Russia's war crimes in Sumy on Palm Sunday - General Staff

"On the day of a major Christian holiday, Palm Sunday, Russian forces committed yet another crime against humanity. They launched ballistic missile strikes on the city center of Sumy. Dozens of civilians were killed or wounded," the General Staff said.

Ukrainian forces noted that, having failed to achieve strategic success on the battlefield, Russian forces are once again resorting to their usual tactics.

“Russia is waging war against civilians. It blatantly violates international law, as well as the laws and customs of war. Once again, Russia shows that it does not seek peace. Its goal is to instill fear. But Russia will face only our fury and inevitable retribution,” the General Staff said.

Military officials stressed that Ukraine’s response to Russian aggression would be severe.

"We will destroy the enemy, their military facilities, weapons, and equipment — wherever they are. Russian war crimes have no statute of limitations. The perpetrators must be held accountable and punished as they deserve," the statement continued.

Missile strike on Sumy

As a reminder, on April 13, Russian forces launched a double missile strike on the center of Sumy. According to Serhii Kryvosheienko, Head of Sumy City Military Administration, it was the second missile strike that caused the mass casualties.

According to reports, the enemy used the same tactic during today's attack as it did in Kryvyi Rih last week. Local authorities said that Russia again launched a missile equipped with cluster munitions, and the warhead detonated over the city.

According to the latest information, more than 30 people were killed in Sumy. Children were among the victims. Nearly 100 people were wounded, including more than 10 children.

For the latest information on the consequences of the missile strike on Sumy, read RBC-Ukraine's report.