Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised alarm over what he describes as an intensifying campaign of aerial assaults by Russia, revealing that nearly 2,800 aerial bombs, over 1,400 Iranian-made Shahed drones, and around 60 missiles have struck Ukrainian territory since the beginning of April.
In a Monday statement, Zelensky decried the growing toll on civilians, pointing to the deadly Russian ballistic missile strike in Sumy, which has killed at least 34 people and left 119 injured, including children. “Currently, 38 people are receiving treatment in medical facilities — 11 in critical condition,” he stated.
The President detailed additional attacks in cities including Odesa, Slovyansk, Uman, Kharkiv, and Beryslav, with all targets identified as civilian infrastructure, such as apartment complexes and local businesses. “Russian terror continues every day and night,” he said.
Zelensky urged world leaders to apply stronger sanctions and “real pressure” on Russia, condemning continued aggression as a violation of international law and a direct threat to global security.
Highlighting Moscow’s alleged dismissal of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal, Zelensky criticized Russia for rejecting diplomatic overtures. “It’s now the second month Putin has ignored the offer for a full and unconditional ceasefire,” he noted, referencing former U.S. President Donald Trump’s involvement.
Sunday’s bombing in Sumy, one of the deadliest in over a year, disrupted a temporary lull in the region and emphasized the fragility of recent diplomatic efforts.
World leaders and international observers have condemned the strikes, with concerns growing that the attacks may constitute war crimes under international humanitarian law.
The war, now in its third year since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, continues to displace millions and claim lives daily. Ukrainian officials have once again called on allies for greater military aid and intensified sanctions, stressing that civilian safety and hopes for peace are rapidly deteriorating under Russia’s ongoing offensive.
