Russian strike in Poltava: death toll climbs to 51; Zelensky orders investigation

Russian missile attack kills many in Poltava, Ukraine, sparking condemnation and calls for accountability from global leaders.

At least 51 people were killed and hundreds wounded Tuesday (September 3, 2024) in a Russian missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Poltava, authorities said, in one of the single deadliest bombardments of the two-and-a-half-year war.

US President Joe Biden condemned the “deplorable attack”, which Kyiv said hit a military training facility and a nearby hospital, though authorities did not say how many of the victims were military or civilians.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to hold what he called “Russian scum” accountable, while rescuers worked to clear the rubble.

“According to the information available now, this Russian strike killed 51 people,” Mr. Zelensky said in his evening address.

“The number of injured is 271. We know that there are people under the rubble of the destroyed building. Everything is being done to save as many lives as possible,” Mr. Zelensky said.

Washington, Berlin and London all condemned the strike.

Mr. Biden vowed Washington would continue military aid to Kyiv, “including providing the air defence systems and capabilities they need to protect their country”.