Volodymyr Zelenskyy has attacked the “filthy scum” responsible for a Russian missile attack which left dozens of Ukrainian civilians dead and many more injured.

The strike took place in Sumy in the north-east of the country as worshippers made their way to church to mark Palm Sunday.

Ukraine’s foreign minister, Andrii Sybiha, said: “Launching such an attack on a major Christian holiday is absolute evil.”

It is a further blow to Donald Trump’s hopes of securing an end to the conflict, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago.

According to Ukrainian officials, at least 31 people – including two children – were killed, with more than 84 injured, of whom 10 were children.

In a post on X, the Ukrainian president condemned the “horrific” attack.

He said: “Russian missiles hit an ordinary city street, ordinary life – residential buildings, educational institutions, cars on the street. And that’s on the day when people go to church – Palm Sunday, the feast of the Lord’s Entry into Jerusalem.

“According to preliminary information, dozens of civilians were killed and wounded. Only filthy scum can act like this – taking the lives of ordinary people.”

Zelenskyy called on the world to “respond firmly” to the latest Russian aggression.

“The United States, Europe, everyone in the world who wants this war and these killings to end,” he said. “Russia wants exactly this kind of terror and is dragging this war out.

“Without pressure on Russia, peace is impossible. Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and aerial bombs. What’s needed is an attitude toward Russia that a terrorist deserves.”

In a later post, Zelenskyy said: “It is crucial that the world does not stay silent or indifferent. Russian strikes deserve nothing but condemnation.

“There must be pressure on Russia to end the war and guarantee security for people. Without truly strong pressure, without sufficient support for Ukraine, Russia will continue dragging this war out.

“It’s now the second month that Putin has been ignoring the US proposal for a full and unconditional ceasefire. Unfortunately, there in Moscow they are convinced they can keep killing with impunity. Action is needed to change this situation.”

UK politicians united to condemn the latest Russian atrocity.

Keir Starmer said: “I’m appalled at Russia’s horrific attacks on civilians in Sumy and my thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones at this tragic time.

“President Zelenskyy has shown his commitment to peace. Putin must now agree to a full and immediate ceasefire without conditions.”

Shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge said it was “an utterly shocking attack”.

“This is a reminder of the price innocent Ukrainians – including children – are paying for Putin’s unprovoked aggression every single day. It also underlines why there should be no ambiguity whatsoever who the aggressor is.”