Today at 16:44
UNESCO has condemned the reported Russian strike on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Ukrainian capital, following Russia’s latest large-scale attack on Kyiv, UATV English reports, citing the UNESCO official website.
In a statement, the UN cultural agency said the attack on 15 June struck the World Heritage property “Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra,” one of Ukraine’s most important spiritual and cultural landmarks.
According to UNESCO, the strike caused significant damage to both the exterior and interior of the Dormition Cathedral. Adjacent historic structures, including parts of the Lavra’s fortification complex and the Ivan Kushnik Tower, were also reportedly affected.
UNESCO reiterated that attacks against cultural property, educational institutions, students, educators, and media professionals protected under international law are unacceptable. The organization warned that damage to such sites deprives communities of access to culture, education, and shared spaces that are essential for recovery and social cohesion.
The agency also said it stands ready to support the relevant authorities in assessing the damage and identifying urgent response measures within its mandate.
The statement comes after a Russian overnight attack on Kyiv that killed at least 5 people and injured more than 30 others, while also causing a fire at the historic monastery complex.
