On May 21, russian media reported that the Iskander ballistic missile struck Ukrainian training site near Shostka, Sumy region, allegedly killing up to 70 soldiers.
The information was echoed in a statement by the Ministry of Defense of russia. However, no official confirmation or comment has yet been issued by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Update, May 21: the National Guard of Ukraine has confirmed the fact of the strike, acknowledging 16 casualties among military servicemen, including six killed and 10 injured, and started an investigation into the “tragic incident,” with a temporary suspension of the unit commander from duty. The rest of the story is left as published
The Sumy Regional Military Administration confirmed that russian missile strike hit the Shostka community, damaging infrastructure at a local enterprise. Emergency response teams are currently working at the site to assess the damage and assist with recovery efforts.
Volunteer and civic activist Serhii Sternenko responded publicly, suggesting the strike targeted a formation or gathering of military personnel in a frontline zone less than 50 km from the border, an area frequently surveilled by enemy drones.
“Once again, we see troops being concentrated in a predictable location within reach of russian reconnaissance and missile systems. And once again, no one seems to be held accountable for decisions that put people at risk,” Serhii Sternenko wrote.
While details about casualties remain unverified, the incident underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Ukrainian forces to russian precision strikes, especially in areas close to the border where surveillance and missile threats remain constant.