President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that dozens of individuals lost their lives in a Russian assault on the central Ukrainian city of Poltava on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. The attack targeted a military educational facility.
“More than 180 people were injured. Unfortunately, there are many dead. As of now, 41 people have been reported dead,” Mr. Zelenskyy stated.
Follow The Hindu’s coverage of the Russia Ukraine war
According to Ukraine’s Defence Ministry, two Russian ballistic missiles struck a hospital and an educational institution, causing significant damage to one of the institute’s buildings.
“The time between the warning and the arrival of the missiles was so short that people were caught in the midst of evacuating to the bomb shelter,” the Ministry explained.
After rescuing 25 individuals, including 11 trapped under debris, rescue operations were still ongoing, as per the Ministry’s report.
Russian military bloggers claimed that the strike was aimed at an outdoor ceremony.
Ukrainian MP Maria Bezugla, known for her criticism of Ukraine’s military leadership, held high-ranking officials responsible for jeopardizing soldiers by permitting such events.
“These tragedies are repeating themselves. When will it end?” she questioned on Telegram.
Mr. Zelenskyy has demanded a swift investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and has urged for additional air defense equipment from Ukraine’s Western allies.
