In a devastating escalation of violence, at least 41 people have been killed and more than 180 injured following a Russian missile strike on Poltava, Ukraine. The attack, which took place today, saw two Russian ballistic missiles hit a military education facility, including a hospital and an educational institution.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence reported that the missiles struck a hospital and a nearby educational institution, causing significant damage to one of the buildings at the telecommunications institute. The brief interval between the air raid alarm and the missile strikes left many caught off guard during their evacuation attempts.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the attack on social media, confirming the extent of the destruction and the heavy toll on civilians. “I received preliminary reports on the Russian strike in Poltava. According to available information, two ballistic missiles targeted an educational institution and a nearby hospital, partially destroying one of the buildings,” Zelenskyy wrote. He added that many people are feared trapped under the rubble and that search and rescue operations are ongoing.
In his message, Zelenskyy expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and highlighted the urgent need for international support. “People were trapped under the rubble. Many were rescued, but more than 180 were injured. Unfortunately, there are many casualties. As of now, we know that 41 people were killed,” he said.
The Ukrainian President has called for a full-scale investigation into the attack and has ordered all necessary services to be involved in the rescue operations. He also thanked those who assisted immediately after the strike. “I am grateful to everyone who has been helping and saving lives from the very first moments following the strike,” Zelenskyy noted.
Describing the attack as an act of terrorism, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for enhanced air defense systems and long-range missiles to protect against further Russian aggression. “We continue to urge everyone in the world who has the power to stop this terror: Ukraine needs air defense systems and missiles now, not sitting in storage. Long-range strikes that can protect us from Russian terror are needed now, not later. Every day of delay, unfortunately, means more lost lives,” he asserted.
Sources By Agencies
