Teen hero's bravery shines amid Sumy missile tragedy
Thirteen-year-old Kyrylo Ilyashenko demonstrated extraordinary courage during a Russian missile attack in Sumy. Despite being injured himself, he rescued passengers from a burning bus.
What do you need to know?
- Missile attack in Sumy: On Sunday morning, the Russians launched a missile attack on the city of Sumy, causing the deaths of at least 34 people and injuring over 100.
- Heroic act of the 13-year-old: Kyrylo Ilyashenko, despite the bus doors being blocked, managed to escape through a broken window and help other passengers.
- Health condition of Kyrylo: The boy sustained shrapnel injuries but is under medical care. His mother was also injured, but her life is not in danger.
How did the missile attack in Sumy happen?
On Sunday, during the celebration of Palm Sunday, the Russians launched a missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy. The missiles hit the city centre, where many residents were returning from church or walking along the boulevard. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 32 people, and over 80 were injured. Among the victims were passengers of the bus in which 13-year-old Kyrylo Ilyashenko was travelling.
How did Kyrylo Ilyashenko save the bus passengers?
During the attack, the bus that teenage Kyrylo was on caught fire, and the vehicle's doors jammed. The boy managed to escape through a broken window and helped other passengers to flee. Despite sustaining shrapnel injuries himself, his quick reaction saved many lives. Kyrylo is currently under medical care, and his mother, who was also injured, has been discharged home.
What were the reactions to the attack in Sumy?
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack and appealed to the West for a firm response. The White House described the Russian action as a "brutal reminder" of the need to end the war. President Donald Trump argued that there must have been some mistake.
