At least 32 people have been killed including two children after a Russian missile strike hit Ukraine as Christians gathered in the city to celebrate the start of Holy Week.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a statement responding to the strike on the city of Sumy this morning, demanding a "tough reaction from the world".
The Ukrainian state emergency service has said that 21 people were killed while at least 83 others are injured - including 7 children - after two ballistic missiles hit the city centre while Christians gathered to mark Palm Sunday.
"People were injured right in the middle of the street, in cars, public transport, in houses," the service said this morning, adding that it was a "deliberate destruction of civilians on an important church feast day".
The Ukrainian state emergency service has said that 21 people were killed while at least 83 others are injured
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Emergency services remain in the affected area
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"Now every minute is important for the lives of the injured," they said in a statement, confirming that police have access to the scene along with other officials and experts to carry out investigative work.
Sir Keir Starmer said: "I am appalled at Russia's horrific attacks on civilians in Sumy and my thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones at this tragic time.
"This latest deadly attack is a stark reminder of the continued bloodshed perpetrated by Putin."
He added that the Ukrainian leader had "shown his commitment to peace", calling on the Russian president to agree to a "full and immediate ceasefire without conditions - as Ukraine has done".
Taking to Telegram, Zelensky wrote: "Only scoundrels can act like this. Taking the lives of ordinary people.
"Russia wants exactly this kind of terror and is dragging out this war.
"Without pressure on the aggressor, peace is impossible.
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'People were injured right in the middle of the street, in cars, public transport, in houses,' the state service said
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The state emergency services has confirmed that they have deployed more officials to help the victims - including psychologists
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"Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and air bombs. We need the kind of attitude towards Russia that a terrorist deserves."
This attack has followed a similar incident last month when around 90 individuals were injured after Russia launched a vicious attack on the city.
Interior minister Ihor Klymenko posted on Telegram earlier, confirming that emergency services have continued to work at the scene.
The latest attack on Sumy is believed to be one of the deadliest attacks on Ukraine this year
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Emergency crews are currently carrying out a rescue mission
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“Sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of Sumy, we grieve with you," he added.
The state emergency services has confirmed that they have deployed more officials to help the victims - including psychologists.
"Investigators and forensic experts are at the scene of the attacks - collecting evidence, documenting the brutal war crime of the Russian Federation against the civilian population," the service said.
The attack today comes just hours before discussions between Russia and the US are due to take place in Saudi Arabia on the future of a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv.
