Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked former U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Ukraine before engaging in any peace talks with Russia. Zelensky emphasized the need for Trump to see the destruction caused by the war. He urged him to visit hospitals, churches, and cities to understand the war’s toll on civilians. This appeal came during an interview with 60 Minutes, recorded before a deadly missile strike in Sumy on Sunday.
Zelensky’s Urgent Request for Trump’s Visit
President Zelensky made an emotional request for Donald Trump to visit Ukraine. He wanted Trump to witness the war’s damage firsthand. Zelensky stressed that seeing the destruction in person would help world leaders understand the human cost. This request followed the missile strike in Sumy, which killed 34 people, including two children, and injured over 100 others.
The Tragic Impact of the Sumy Missile Strike
The missile strike in Sumy killed 34 civilians and injured 117. It marked one of the deadliest attacks this year. Trump called it a “horrible thing” and a tragic “mistake,” but offered no further details. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the attack as a deliberate war crime by Russia. Merz’s statement added weight to the growing international outcry against Russia’s aggression.
Global Leaders Condemn Russia’s Actions
World leaders have strongly condemned Russia’s actions. Russia has not issued an official statement about the missile strike. However, military experts believe Russian troops near the border are preparing for a larger assault. As the war nears its fourth year, the United States continues to push for a diplomatic resolution. Trump’s administration wants a negotiated end to the conflict. His envoy to Ukraine, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, called the strike inhumane.
Germany and France Take Strong Stances Against Russia
German officials criticized Russia’s missile attack as a calculated act of aggression. Chancellor Merz called the strike a violation of international law, showing Russia’s disregard for civilian lives. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed these sentiments, accusing Russia of ignoring diplomacy and human life. Macron urged European leaders to take a stronger stance and to push for a ceasefire.
European Union Responds to Russia’s Aggression
The European Union has condemned Russia’s actions. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the missile strike as “barbaric.” She stressed that Russia’s actions violate international norms. Von der Leyen reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to pressure Russia until Ukraine’s peace terms are met. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also condemned the attack, calling it an assault on innocent civilians.
The United Nations Calls for Peace and Protection of Ukraine
The United Nations expressed shock over the missile attack. A spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres reminded the world that attacking civilians is forbidden under international law. Guterres called for a peace process that would protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The UN continues to advocate for the end of Russia’s aggression.
Recent Deadly Strikes and Rising Casualties
Sunday’s missile strike in Sumy was the deadliest civilian attack in Ukraine this year. Previous missile strikes, such as the one on Kryvyi Rih in April, also caused significant casualties. In that attack, 20 people were killed, and over 60 were injured. Russia claimed it targeted a meeting of commanders and Western advisors, but provided no evidence. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, casualties have mounted on both sides. Thousands of soldiers and civilians have died, and nearly seven million Ukrainians are displaced.
The Long-Standing Roots of the Conflict
The conflict began in 2014 when Ukraine ousted its pro-Moscow president. In response, Russia annexed Crimea and supported separatist uprisings in eastern Ukraine. The war escalated in 2022, with Russia launching a full-scale invasion. The roots of the conflict run deep, with territorial disputes and years of political tensions.
As world leaders continue to condemn Russia’s actions, Zelensky’s appeal for Trump to visit Ukraine underscores the war’s human cost. The conflict shows no signs of ending soon, and diplomatic efforts continue. The international community is pushing for peace, but pressure on Russia will likely remain high. Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remain a central focus in the global dialogue for peace.