UN condemns missile attack in Sumi, Ukraine killing 34 and injuring nearly 100

The United Nations has condemned a recent missile attack in Sumi, Ukraine, which resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 34 individuals, including two children, and left nearly 100 others injured. The attack, which occurred on Palm Sunday, involved two missiles striking a crowded street in the city center, destroying a public bus and damaging numerous residential buildings and vehicles. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his shock and alarm over the incident, emphasizing that attacks on civilians are prohibited under international humanitarian law and must cease immediately.

In response to the attack, humanitarian workers quickly mobilized to provide first aid, emergency shelter, psychological support, and essential supplies such as hot meals, blankets, and hygiene kits. The UN's humanitarian coordinator for Ukraine, Matias Shmali, strongly condemned the violence, highlighting the ongoing pattern of assaults on Ukrainian cities that have resulted in significant civilian casualties and destruction.

The situation remains dire, with continued hostilities reported in various regions, including Donetsk, Kherson, Kharkiv, Odessa, Dnipro, and Japaritsa. Local authorities have reported dozens of civilian deaths and injuries since April 11, alongside extensive damage to homes and infrastructure.

In a separate update, the UN Development Program released new data regarding the aftermath of a recent earthquake in Myanmar, revealing that approximately 2.5 million metric tons of debris need to be cleared—equivalent to about 125,000 truckloads. The analysis indicates that 28 health facilities were severely impacted, underscoring the urgent need for large-scale debris removal and reconstruction efforts to restore critical infrastructure and homes. This information is available on the UNDP's website, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by affected communities.