At least 41 people were killed and more than 180 injured when two Russian ballistic missiles attacked a military training centre in Poltava, Ukraine today.
Ukraine’s Defence Ministry reported that two Russian ballistic missiles struck a hospital and an educational institution, partially destroying one of the institute’s buildings.
“The time interval between the alarm being sounded and the arrival of the lethal missiles was so short that people had difficulty getting to bomb shelters,” Ukraine’s Defense Ministry said.
Writing on the social media website X, President Zelensky said: “I have received preliminary reports of a Russian attack in Poltava. According to available information, two ballistic missiles hit the area. They hit an educational institution and a nearby hospital, partially destroying a building of the Institute of Telecommunications.”
He further wrote that many people are feared to be trapped under the debris. 41 people died in the attack, while more than 180 people were injured. He also said that search and rescue operations are underway and many people have been rescued.
President Zelensky also posted a video message to all Ukrainians.
I have received preliminary reports of a Russian attack in Poltava. According to available information, two ballistic missiles hit the area. They hit an educational institution and a nearby hospital, partially destroying a building of the Institute of Telecommunications.… pic.twitter.com/TNppPr1OwF
– Volodymyr Zelensky / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 3, 2024
President Zelensky wrote, “People were buried under the rubble. Many were rescued, but more than 180 were injured. Unfortunately, there are many casualties. So far we know that 41 people have died. My deepest condolences to all their relatives and loved ones.”
The Ukrainian president has ordered a full investigation into the attack and its circumstances. He confirmed that “all necessary services are involved in rescue operations.” He also thanked people who helped immediately after the attack. “I am grateful to everyone who has been helping and saving lives from the very first moment after the attack,” he wrote.
President Zelenskyy vowed that Russia “will definitely pay a price for this attack”.
Calling it a “terrorist attack”, May Zelensky wrote, “We urge everyone in the world who has the power to stop this terror: Ukraine needs air defence systems and missiles now, not ones lying in storage. Long-range strikes that can protect us from Russian terror are needed now, not later. Unfortunately, every day of delay means more lives lost.”
