Over 50 Dead in Ukraine After Major Missile Attack

A devastating Russian missile strike on central Ukraine leaves over 50 dead and more than 200 injured, marking the deadliest strike of the year.

At a Glance

Two ballistic missiles hit a military academy and nearby hospital in Poltava, central Ukraine.
Over 50 people were killed and over 200 were injured in the attack.
President Zelensky condemned the attack and called for more air defenses.
The strike occurred with insufficient warning time for people to reach bomb shelters.
International condemnation poured in from the UK, US, and Germany.

Deadly Missile Strike Rocks Central Ukraine

In a shocking turn of events, a Russian missile attack on the city of Poltava in central Ukraine has left over 50 dead. Most reports have put the death toll at 51, with the number of injured at 271. However, at least one report placed the death toll at 53 and said that the number of injured had risen to 298. The strike, which targeted a military academy and a nearby hospital, is reportedly the deadliest strike this year.

The missiles struck the Poltava Military Institute of Communication, partially destroying its main building. The institute, which trains officers in communications, electronics, and drone operations, was hit along with a nearby hospital. The attack occurred with little warning, leaving insufficient time for people to reach bomb shelters after the air raid alarm sounded.

At least 50 people were killed and 271 wounded when Russia hit a military institute in Ukraine's central town of Poltava with two ballistic missiles, the war's deadliest single attack this year. https://t.co/3qvp4A6SJs

— The Japan Times (@japantimes) September 4, 2024

Eyewitness Accounts and Immediate Aftermath

Witnesses reported windows blown out by the impact, with significant damage to surrounding areas. Cadet Mykyta Petrov described the horrific scene, saying, “I ran outside, there was smoke and dust everywhere…lots of people were outside having a cigarette, and many were killed…”

“Soldiers have died here and I know there are still soldiers still under the rubble. Their wives are waiting for them,” Yana Kulishova said.

Rescue efforts have involved firefighters and army personnel working to clear the site and ensure safety. Some people were trapped under the rubble, but many have been rescued. The attack caused significant damage beyond the immediate strike zone, including shattered apartment windows and damaged roads in the surrounding area.

International Response and Calls for Action

The attack has drawn swift condemnation from world leaders. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced the attackers as “Russian scum” and called for increased air defense support. International figures, including UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, US President Joe Biden, and Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, have also voiced their condemnation of the attack.

“I condemn this deplorable attack in the strongest possible terms,” Biden said in a statement Tuesday evening. “This assault is a tragic reminder of Putin’s ongoing and outrageous attempts to break the will of a free people. But for two and a half years, the people of Ukraine have stood unbowed. And the United States will continue stand with them—including providing the air defense systems and capabilities they need to protect their country.”

President Zelensky’s call for more robust defenses highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Ukrainian cities to such devastating strikes. As the international community rallies in support, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the human cost of the ongoing conflict.