KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Tuesday that 41 people were killed and more than 180 injured in a Russian missile strike on the city of Poltava. In a statement on X, Zelenskyy reported, "I received preliminary reports on the Russian strike on Poltava ... Many people were rescued, but more than 180 were injured. Unfortunately, there are many casualties. As of now, we know that 41 people were killed." The attack involved two ballistic missiles that struck an educational institution and a nearby hospital, with part of the Military Institute of Communications also being damaged. Zelenskyy has called for an investigation into the incident. “All necessary services are involved in the rescue operation,” Zelenskyy stated, highlighting ongoing efforts to save lives. The Ukrainian president urged the international community to provide Ukraine with air defense systems and long-range missiles, emphasizing the urgency of such support to prevent further attacks. “Every day of delay, unfortunately, means more lost lives,” he added. Ukraine’s Defense Ministry confirmed that 25 people were rescued during search and rescue operations, including 11 who were pulled from the rubble. — Agencies