Russian Strike Kills Ukrainian Soldiers During Training Exercise in Sumy

Russian Strike Kills Ukrainian Soldiers in Sumy Training Exercise

A Russian missile strike on a training exercise in Ukraine's Sumy region has resulted in the deaths of six Ukrainian soldiers and injured over ten others, according to Ukraine's National Guard.

The attack occurred during a training exercise at a firing range. Russia's defense ministry released a video purportedly showing the Iskander missile attack on the camp.

Ukraine's military had previously launched an offensive into Russia's Kursk region to create a buffer zone to protect Sumy, but this led to complaints of military losses.

Investigation Underway

The deadly strike prompted an investigation, and the commander has been suspended. A BBC Verify investigation pinpointed the targeted training camp in the far north of the Sumy region, south of the Russian border.

Ceasefire Talks Stall

This attack follows Ukraine's claim to have thwarted Russia's attempt to establish a 'security zone' in the Sumy region. Talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul last Friday showed little sign of progress, and despite suggestions of Vatican mediation, no concrete plans are in place. Zelenskyy accuses Russia of stalling truce talks to prolong the war.