NewsTeen hero saves bus passengers in Sumy missile attack

Teen hero saves bus passengers in Sumy missile attack

Thirteen-year-old Kyrylo Ilyashenko showed extraordinary bravery during a Russian missile attack in Sumy. Despite being injured, he rescued passengers from a burning bus.

The Russian attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy resulted in the death of 34 people.
The Russian attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy resulted in the death of 34 people.
Images source: © PAP | NATIONAL GUARD OF UKRAINE HANDOUT

What do you need to know?

  • Missile attack in Sumy: On Sunday morning, the Russians launched a missile attack on the city of Sumy, resulting in the deaths of at least 34 people and injuring over 100 others.
  • Heroic act of the 13-year-old: Kyrylo Ilyashenko, even though the bus doors were blocked, managed to escape through a broken window and assist other passengers.
  • Health condition of Kyrylo: The boy sustained shrapnel injuries but is receiving medical care. His mother was also injured; however, her life is not in danger.

How did the missile attack in Sumy happen?

On Sunday, during Palm Sunday celebrations, the Russians conducted a missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy. Missiles struck the city center, where many residents were returning from church or strolling along the boulevard. The attack led to the deaths of at least 34 people, and over 100 were injured. Among the victims were passengers on the bus that 13-year-old Kyrylo Ilyashenko was traveling in.

How did Kyrylo Ilyashenko save the bus passengers?

During the attack, the bus that young Kyrylo was riding in caught fire, and the vehicle's doors became blocked. Kyrylo managed to escape through a broken window and helped other passengers to flee. Despite sustaining shrapnel injuries himself, his quick response 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 called on the West for a decisive response. The White House described the Russian action as a "brutal reminder" of the need to end the war. Former President Donald Trump suggested there must have been some mistake.

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