Ukraine has endured one of its darkest days after two ballistic missiles killed more than 40 people and injured about 200, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
The rockets hit an educational institution and a nearby hospital in a central area of Ukraine. After the devastating attack, Zelensky vowed that “the Russian scum will pay for this.”
The strike took place in the Poltava region, the president said in a video posted on his Telegram channel.
This appears to be one of the deadliest attacks carried out by Russian forces since the war began more than 900 days ago on February 24, 2022.
There are fears that local informants may have participated in the attack, prompting Zelensky to order an immediate investigation.
Two Russian ballistic missiles hit an educational institution and a nearby hospital in a central area of Ukraine
More than 40 people were killed and about 200 injured in the strike.
The attack targeted the 128th Brigade, with one rocket hitting the parade ground and another the mess hall, leaving a scene of destruction
“Russian scum will definitely be held accountable for this attack,” Zelensky said.
‘One of the buildings of the Institute of Communication was partially destroyed.
‘People were trapped under the rubble. Many were rescued.
More than 180 people were injured.
“Unfortunately, there have been many deaths. At this time, there are 41 known deaths,” he said.
Russian broadcasters claimed the costs were significantly higher.
In Poltava, people were buried under rubble in an attack on the Institute of Communications, which also hit a nearby hospital.
According to reports, the Russian Iskander missile attack took place during a deployment at military unit A3990.
The victims are likely to include Ukrainian specialists in radar and radio-electronic warfare.
The attack was aimed at the 128th Brigade. One rocket hit the parade ground and another the mess hall, causing havoc.
Bodies were strewn everywhere as survivors nursed their wounds in shock.
Local sources reported an urgent appeal for blood donors, suggesting heavy casualties in one of the most devastating attacks of the war.
Zelensky has ordered a full investigation into the incident
Zelensky also paid tribute to those who died in the strike.
“My condolences to all family and friends,” he said.
‘I have ordered a full and prompt investigation into all the circumstances of what happened.
‘All necessary services are involved in the rescue operation.
‘I am grateful to everyone who, from the first minutes after the impact, helped people who saved lives.’
He reiterated his call on the West – including Britain and the US – to allow him to use long-range missiles to attack military targets in Russia.
“We have told everyone in the world time and again who has the power to stop this terror.
‘Air defense systems and missiles are needed in Ukraine, not in a warehouse somewhere.
‘Long-range strikes that protect against Russian terrorism are needed now, not some time down the road.’
‘Unfortunately, every day of delay is a day of loss of life.
‘Eternal memory of all those who were killed by Russia.’
Russian Telegram channels reported the death toll could be above 70.
One station reported: ‘Simply excellent work by intelligence and the crew of Islander.
“Deserves a medal,” said another.