As peace negotiations inch forward between Russia and Ukraine under international mediation, a tragic and unsettling development threatens to derail the progress. On Sunday, two Russian ballistic missiles hit the Ukrainian city of Sumy, resulting in the deaths of 34 civilians and injuries to 117 others. This deadly attack, confirmed by Ukrainian authorities, marks the deadliest strike on Ukrainian soil in 2025, raising global concerns about the credibility of Russia’s intentions in the ongoing peace talks.
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A City Shattered
Sumy, a northern Ukrainian city located just 25 kilometers from the Russian border, was rocked by a mid-morning missile attack. The timing was particularly jarring—it occurred on Palm Sunday, a significant Christian observance. Video footage shared by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed scenes of devastation: burned-out cars, a destroyed public bus, and lifeless bodies strewn across the street.
“This is not just a missile strike; it’s an attack on humanity,” Zelenskyy said in a statement. “Only those with no respect for life or faith could commit such an act on a sacred day.”
Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko confirmed that the victims were mostly civilians—people traveling in public transport, pedestrians, and residents inside homes and local businesses. The missiles were believed to have contained cluster munitions, a weapon internationally criticized for its indiscriminate nature and long-lasting danger.
Rising Doubts Amid Peace Efforts
The missile strike comes at a sensitive juncture when diplomatic talks, brokered by the Trump administration, are aiming to bring about a ceasefire agreement. US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Witkoff, had just concluded talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg two days before the attack.
In response, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the missile strike a “tragic reminder of what is at stake” and reiterated the administration’s commitment to ending the conflict. However, skepticism is growing about whether peace is truly possible if such violent escalations continue.
Zelenskyy, in an interview aired on CBS News’ “60 Minutes”, issued a direct appeal to Trump: “Come to Ukraine. See the civilians, the hospitals, the churches. Understand what this war looks like from the ground.”
International Outrage and Condemnation
The attack has drawn sharp criticism from leaders around the world. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz remarked, “These attacks show just what Russia’s supposed readiness for peace is worth.” The Prime Ministers of Britain and Italy also condemned the strikes and pledged continued support for Ukraine.
The International Criminal Court (ICC), which Ukraine officially joined this year, has been notified of the attack. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Kyiv is sharing detailed information with international institutions and allies to classify the incident as a war crime.
Possible Intelligence Leak?
There is growing speculation within Ukraine that a security breach may have contributed to the timing and location of the strike. Maryana Bezuhla, a prominent Ukrainian lawmaker, hinted that leaked information about a gathering of Ukrainian soldiers in Sumy might have triggered the attack. However, no concrete evidence has been made public, and local residents have denied any military presence in the area.
“We live in the city center. There are no soldiers, no bases—just families, schools, and shops,” said Pavriz Manakhov, a Sumy resident who spoke to Reuters.
Broader Implications
This attack adds to the already heavy toll of the war that began in February 2022. Russia now controls nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory in the east and south. While talks of ceasefire agreements—particularly regarding energy infrastructure—have surfaced, both sides have accused the other of repeated violations.
Sumy’s acting mayor, Artem Kobzar, has declared three days of mourning starting Monday. Meanwhile, a separate drone strike in Odesa on Sunday further intensified fears of a widespread offensive.
The international community now faces a pressing dilemma: how to continue peace negotiations while civilian lives remain at risk. The Russian missile hit Ukraine at a time when hope was beginning to take root—making the path forward even more complicated and fraught with uncertainty.
The Sumy missile strike is not just a tragic event—it is a turning point. It underscores the brutal cost of war and the fragile nature of peace. As the world watches, the question remains: will diplomacy prevail, or will violence continue to eclipse hope?
By – Jyothi
