European leaders have condemned Russia's missile assault on Ukraine's northeastern metropolis of Sumy that killed not less than 32 folks, together with two kids, and injured 84.
Russia on April 13 launched two ballistic missiles on the metropolis in northeastern Ukraine on the morning of Palm Sunday, when many voters have been celebrating the spiritual vacation within the leadup to Easter.
The assault happened simply two days after U.S. Particular Envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg to debate peace negotiations.
“Everybody is aware of: This warfare was initiated by Russia alone. And right now, it’s clear that Russia alone chooses to proceed it — with blatant disregard for human lives, worldwide regulation, and the diplomatic efforts of President Trump,” French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on X.
He known as for sturdy measures to “impose a ceasefire on Russia” and famous that France is working in direction of that aim with allies.
EU Excessive Consultant for International Affairs and Safety Coverage Kaja Kallas wrote on X that the assault was "heartbreaking" as residents gathered for Palm Sunday “solely to be met by Russian missiles.”
“Horrific instance of Russia intensifying assaults whereas Ukraine has accepted an unconditional ceasefire,” she added, referencing Kyiv’s settlement to a full 30-day ceasefire after U.S.-mediated talks in Jeddah on March 11.
The EU’s ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, known as the assault on churchgoers throughout Palm Sunday a "warfare crime" and stated that Europe is “rising stress on Russia and supporting Ukraine in each doable manner.”
“Nothing appears to be sacred to the Russians — neither church buildings, nor Ukrainian kids,” she added.
Moldova’s President Maia Sandu known as for extra air protection for Ukraine and added that Moldova “mourns with Ukraine.” She stated that “Palm Sunday is a day of peace,” emphasizing that Russia “have to be held accountable” and that “there isn’t a justification for such evil.”
The chief of the exiled Belarusian opposition Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya wrote on X that “Putin’s regime exhibits as soon as once more that it doesn’t need peace.”
Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Michal stated the assault proves that “Russia’s aim is erasing Ukraine.” He careworn that help to Ukraine can’t be delayed, including that “no stress on Russia means no peace.”
The Kyiv IndependentChris York