Two Russian ballistic missiles have hit an educational facility and a hospital in Poltava, central Ukraine, resulting in at least 51 deaths and over 200 injuries, according to Ukrainian officials. This attack is reported to be one of the deadliest by Russian forces since the war began more than 900 days ago on February 24, 2022. Russia has not yet confirmed the strike.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that a building at the Military Institute of Communications was partially destroyed, trapping people under the rubble. Many were rescued, but Zelenskyy has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident and vowed that Russia would face consequences.
Poltava, situated about 350km southeast of Kyiv, is a key transportation hub between Kyiv and Kharkiv, close to the Russian border. Zelenskyy assured that all necessary services are involved in the rescue operations and emphasized that the rescue work continues.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence described the day as “terrible” and noted that the missiles struck shortly after an air raid alert, catching many people on their way to shelters. Thanks to the efforts of rescuers, 25 individuals have been saved, with 11 pulled from under the rubble. The rescue work is ongoing, and there are fears that 15 more people may still be trapped.
Poltava Governor Filip Pronin has declared three days of mourning starting Wednesday, calling the attack a “great tragedy” for both Poltava and Ukraine as a whole. Russian military bloggers have suggested the missiles targeted an outdoor ceremony. Ukrainian MP Maria Bezugla criticized high-ranking officials for their role in such incidents, expressing frustration over the recurring tragedies.
Zelenskyy has reiterated his call for more Western air defense systems and long-range weapons to protect Ukraine from further attacks. He stressed the urgent need for these resources to prevent additional loss of life.
