More than 20 people have been killed after a Russian missile strike hit Ukraine as Christians gathered in the city to celebrate the start of Holy Week.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a statement responding to the strike on the city of Sumy this morning, demanding a "tough reaction from the world".

The Ukrainian state emergency service has said that 21 people were killed while at least 83 others are injured.

"People were injured right in the middle of the street, in cars, public transport, in houses," they said.

REUTERS

"Now every minute is important for the lives of the injured," they said in a statement, confirming that police have access to the scene along with other officials and experts to carry out investigative work.

Taking to Telegram, Zelensky wrote: "Russia wants exactly this kind of terror and is dragging out this war.

"Without pressure on the aggressor, peace is impossible.

"Talks have never stopped ballistic missiles and air bombs. We need the kind of attitude towards Russia that a terrorist deserves."

This attack has followed a similar incident last month when around 90 individuals were injured after Russia launched a vicious attack on the city.

The attack today comes just hours before discussions between Russia and the US are due to take place in Saudi Arabia on the future of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.