Russia’s Palm Sunday atrocities: a call for global action to defend Ukraine

Today, on Palm Sunday, Russia’s missile attacks on Ukrainian civilians have reached a new level of godlessness, cynicism, and criminality. These actions are a stark reminder that there can be no peace with a regime that seeks to annihilate the Ukrainian nation and repopulate our land with Russian chauvinists. The Ukrainian World Congress condemns these brutal assaults on innocent lives and calls for immediate and decisive action from the international community.

On April 13, 2025, Russian ballistic missiles struck the heart of the Ukrainian city of Sumy, killing at least 34 people, including two children, and wounding over 100 others.

The attack occurred as civilians gathered to celebrate Palm Sunday, marking one of the deadliest strikes in recent weeks. The Ukrainian Emergency Service reported that the missiles hit around 10:15 a.m., causing widespread devastation and loss of life.

The Ukrainian people deserve the right to live in peace and security. To achieve this, Ukraine must be provided with advanced missile defense systems to protect its civilian population from these relentless attacks. Furthermore, the global community must intensify sanctions to choke the Russian war machine and bring Russia’s war criminals to justice.

Paul Grod, President of the Ukrainian World Congress, stated: “Every day, Ukrainian families face relentless Russian missile and drone attacks. The world must stand with Ukraine and ensure that we have the necessary support to defend our nation and secure a just and lasting peace.”

We urge all allies to continue standing with Ukraine, reinforcing the support that will lead to a just and lasting peace for all of Europe. The Ukrainian World Congress stands firmly with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the courageous people of Ukraine in their defense against Russia’s unprovoked aggression. The time for action is now. Lives depend on it.

UWC extends its deepest condolences to the families of those who were killed and wounded in today’s horrific attacks. We share in your grief and stand in solidarity with all Ukrainians enduring this unthinkable suffering.