In a devastating escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia launched a deadly missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Poltava on September 3, 2024, resulting in at least 49 deaths and 219 injuries. The strike, which targeted the Poltava Military Communications Institute and a nearby hospital, is considered one of the deadliest attacks since the start of the war in February 2022.According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, two Russian ballistic missiles struck the educational facility and hospital, causing significant destruction. ‘One of the buildings of the Institute of Communications was partially destroyed. People were found under the rubble. Many were saved,’ Zelensky stated. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported that the attack occurred shortly after an air raid alert was triggered, catching many people during evacuation to bomb shelters.Rescue efforts are ongoing, with teams having saved 25 people, including 11 who were dug out from the rubble. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation, with Zelensky ordering a ‘complete and rapid’ investigation into the incident. He also reiterated urgent calls for Western allies to provide air defense systems and long-range missiles to protect against further Russian aggression.’Ukraine needs air defense systems and missiles now, not sitting in storage,’ Zelensky emphasized. ‘Long-range strikes that can protect us from Russian terror are needed now, not later. Every day of delay, unfortunately, means more lost lives,’ he added.This attack follows recent airstrikes on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on Sunday, which injured over 40 people, including five children. The ongoing conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilian lives and infrastructure, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced defensive capabilities and international support for Ukraine.
Key points
- Russian missile strike on Poltava, Ukraine, killed at least 49 and injured 219 people.
- The attack targeted a military institute and nearby hospital, making it one of the deadliest since the war began.
- President Zelensky urgently calls for Western allies to provide air defense systems and long-range missiles.
Contradictions👾Initial reports of the death toll varied, with earlier articles reporting 41 deaths, while later reports increased the number to 49.
This discrepancy likely reflects the evolving nature of the situation and ongoing rescue efforts.
