Local authorities report that more than 30 people have been killed after Russian missiles struck the Ukrainian city of Smie on Sunday.
The two ballistic missiles reportedly hit the city centre as people gathered to celebrate Sunday. Videos spread across social media show the aftermath of an attack on the city centre.
“On this bright palm Sunday, our community is suffering from a terrible tragedy,” Actem Kozzar’s acting mayor said in a statement. “Unfortunately, we already know that more than 20 people have died.”
Local media reports that at least 32 deaths, including 10 children, have died, and 84 have been injured.
Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy described the rescue operation as “terrifying” and added that “only a filthy scum can act like this.”
Zelenskyy also sought a strong global response to the attack. “The consultations have never stopped ballistic missiles or air bombs. What we need is an attitude towards Russia that terrorists deserve.”
French President Emmanuel Macron also condemned the attack, saying, “This war was launched by Russia alone. It is clear that today only Russia has chosen to continue it.”
The Ukrainian Air Force warned Smie about ballistic missiles at 10:17am local time. By 10:52am, local officials reported “many deaths.”
Palm Sunday is a Christian holiday celebrated a week before Easter. Many Ukrainians attend churches on holidays.
Additional sources •AP
