Tragedy struck in Sumy, northeastern Ukraine, as two consecutive Russian attacks on a medical centre claimed the lives of six people, according to Ukraine’s interior minister.
Ihor Klymenko stated on Telegram, “The first attack resulted in the death of one person and significant damage to the hospital’s ceilings. The evacuation of patients and staff had begun at that time.”
However, as the evacuation efforts were underway, the Russians launched another attack, resulting in the deaths of five more individuals.
These attacks come amidst increased hostilities in Sumy city and the region ever since Ukrainian forces initiated an operation in Russia’s neighboring Kursk region in August, capturing multiple settlements.
Located a mere 32 km (20 miles) from the Russian border, Sumy city has been a target for Russian forces utilizing drones and guided bombs.
Although the specific weapons used in these attacks were not disclosed by Klymenko, the regional administration confirmed that drones were responsible for the strikes.
Earlier on Saturday, Ukrainian air forces reported downing 69 out of 73 drones during an overnight Russian assault, which included ballistic and cruise missiles.
The military administration in Kyiv revealed that approximately 15 Russian attack drones were intercepted and destroyed by air defenses in the outskirts and the capital.