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Part of the Ukrainian hospital hit by missiles
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Ukraine faced one of its darkest days as a Russian missile strike claimed the lives of more than 40 people and injured around 200, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Two ballistic missiles struck an educational facility and a nearby hospital in the central Poltava region of Ukraine. In a video posted on his Telegram channel, Zelensky vowed that the "Russian scum will pay for this" devastating attack.
The strike, which occurred in the Poltava region, appears to be one of the deadliest carried out by Russian forces since the war began over 900 days ago on February 24, 2022. "One of the buildings of the Institute of Communications was partially destroyed. People were trapped under the rubble. Many were saved," Zelensky said. "All necessary services are involved in the rescue operation," he added, noting that he had ordered "a full and prompt investigation" into the incident. Zelensky did not provide further details.
Destroyed building
Russian channels claimed the death toll was significantly higher. The missiles hit the Institute of Communications, also impacting a nearby hospital, leaving people trapped under the debris. The attack occurred during a line-up at military unit A3990, according to reports.
The victims are believed to include Ukrainian Radar and Radio Electronic Warfare specialists. The strike targeted the 128th Brigade, with one missile hitting the parade ground and another the canteen, resulting in widespread devastation. Bodies were scattered across the scene, while survivors, in shock, tended to their wounds.
Local sources reported an urgent call for blood donors, indicating the severity of the casualties in what is one of the most devastating strikes of the war. There are concerns that the attack was aided by local informants, prompting Zelensky to order an immediate investigation.
"The Russian scum will definitely be held accountable for this attack," Zelensky stated.
"One of the buildings of the Institute of Communications was partially destroyed. People were trapped under the rubble. Many were saved. More than 180 people were injured. Unfortunately, many lost their lives. As of now, 41 people are confirmed dead. My condolences to all the relatives and friends," he said.
Ukrainian President Zelensky
"I have ordered a full and prompt investigation into all the circumstances of what happened. All necessary services are involved in the rescue operation. I am grateful to everyone who, from the first moments after the strike, helped save lives."
Zelensky reiterated his call for Western nations, including Britain and the U.S., to provide Ukraine with long-range missiles to target military sites within Russia.
"We have been telling everyone in the world who has the power to stop this terror over and over again. Air defense systems and missiles are needed in Ukraine, not sitting in a warehouse somewhere. Long-range strikes that can defend against Russian terror are needed now, not later. Unfortunately, every day of delay costs lives. Eternal memory to all those whose lives have been taken by Russia."
Gloating Russian Telegram channels claimed the death toll might exceed 70. One channel remarked: "Simply fine work by the intelligence and Iskander's crew. Deserves medals."
Source: Aljazeera
