A Russian missile strike on the city of Poltava has claimed the lives of at least 51 people and left more than 200 injured, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The attack occurred on September 3, and targeted an educational institution and a nearby hospital, causing widespread destruction.
Two ballistic missiles struck the city, with one hitting the Institute of Communications, partially destroying the building.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with many people still trapped under the rubble.
"I have ordered a full and thorough investigation into the incident. All necessary services are engaged in the rescue operation, and I am deeply grateful to those who have been saving lives from the very first moments," President Zelensky stated in a video call on Telegram.
Russian sources claim the strike targeted a Ukrainian Armed Forces training center. Pro-Russian outlet Mash reported that dozens of Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the attack on military unit A3990, while Russian official Vladimir Rogov suggested that Ukrainian losses were in the hundreds.
Ukrainian authorities confirmed that the missiles struck a military training center but emphasized that many of the victims were civilians caught in the strike as they tried to evacuate to bomb shelters.
"Today, Poltava is living through a terrible day. The Russian aggressor has delivered a barbaric blow to one of the city's educational institutions," the Ukrainian Defense Ministry said in a statement.
