A missile strike in the Ukrainian city of Sumy has drawn international attention after US President Donald Trump described the deadly attack as a "mistake" while commenting on the ongoing conflict.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said: “I think it was terrible. And I was told they made a mistake. But I think it’s a horrible thing.”
He also commented on the broader conflict, saying: “I think the whole war is a horrible thing. I think for that war to have started is an abuse of power. This country would have never allowed that war to have started if I were president. That war is a shame.”
When asked to clarify who had informed him that the strike was a mistake, Trump responded: “They made a mistake. I believe it was. Look, you're gonna ask them. This is Biden's war. This is not my war,” referring to former President Joe Biden. “I’m just trying to get it stopped so that we can save a lot of lives.”
Ukrainian authorities reported that the strike on Sumy, located 31 kilometres (19.2 miles) from the Russian border, took place as people gathered to mark Palm Sunday, the start of Holy Week.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued two statements on X, calling on the international community not to “stay silent or indifferent” to the attack, describing it as deserving of “nothing but condemnation.” He also reiterated Ukraine’s calls for increased international pressure on Russia and stronger security guarantees.
Zelenskyy warned that without sufficient pressure and support, the conflict could continue, saying: “Unfortunately, there in Moscow they are convinced they can keep killing with impunity. Action is needed to change this situation.”
Russian authorities have not yet issued a response regarding the incident or the related statements.
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