A Russian drone strike in Ukraine’s northeastern Sumy region has killed nine civilians and wounded seven others, sparking widespread condemnation and renewed calls from European leaders for increased pressure on Moscow.
The attack, which occurred during the evacuation of civilians from the conflict zone, came just hours after fragile peace talks between Ukraine and Russia concluded in Istanbul without a breakthrough. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the strike a “terrorist act” and accused Russia of deliberately targeting non-combatants.
“These were ordinary people being evacuated. This was a deliberate and cynical attack. If the world tolerates this, then there is no such thing as international law anymore,” Zelenskyy said in a televised statement.
The drone strike, reportedly carried out using Iranian-made Shahed drones, underscores the ongoing escalation of violence despite diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire. Three of the seven injured remain in critical condition.
European leaders swiftly condemned the attack. French President Emmanuel Macron called for “firm consequences,” stating that Russia’s “cynicism and violence must be met with unwavering resistance.” U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed similar sentiments, pushing for sustained sanctions and enhanced military support for Ukraine.
“The international community must not allow such atrocities to pass unanswered,” Starmer stated from London.
The Istanbul talks—billed as a rare opportunity for dialogue since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022—ended with an agreement on a large-scale prisoner exchange but failed to bridge gaps on key issues, including a ceasefire and withdrawal of troops.
The Kremlin has left the door open for future dialogue, with officials hinting at the possibility of direct talks between Presidents Putin and Zelenskyy. However, Ukrainian officials remain sceptical, pointing to ongoing attacks as evidence of Russia’s insincerity.
As global leaders weigh their next steps, Ukraine continues to call for increased Western support, including air defence systems and humanitarian aid, warning that without stronger action, Russian aggression will only intensify.
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