Russian Missile Strike Kills 6 Ukrainian Soldiers During Training in Sumy

On May 20, 2025, a Russian missile strike targeted a Ukrainian military training ground in the Shostka district of Sumy Oblast, resulting in the deaths of six Ukrainian servicemen and injuring at least ten others. The attack occurred during a scheduled training exercise at a National Guard firing range.

The Ukrainian National Guard confirmed the casualties and announced that the commander of the affected unit has been suspended pending an internal investigation. The investigation aims to assess the circumstances leading to the attack and evaluate the actions of responsible personnel.

Russia's Defense Ministry claimed responsibility for the strike, stating that an Iskander missile was used to target what it described as a Ukrainian special forces training camp. The ministry alleged that the attack resulted in up to 70 Ukrainian casualties, including 20 instructors.

This incident underscores the ongoing volatility in northeastern Ukraine, particularly in regions near the Russian border. The Sumy region has been subjected to previous attacks, but this strike represents one of the most significant in recent months.

Ukrainian authorities have pledged a thorough investigation to determine any lapses in protocol and to reinforce measures aimed at protecting military personnel during training exercises. The broader implications of the strike are still unfolding, as both Ukrainian and international observers assess the impact on regional security dynamics.