Russia Strikes Kyiv's 11th-Century Dormition Cathedral, Christian Leaders Condemn Attack
Russian missiles struck the Dormition Cathedral in Kyiv, burning the roof of the 11th-century UNESCO World Heritage site. Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski called the attack an "affront to global civilisation," and the World Council of Churches demanded an immediate end to the invasion.
Russian missiles struck the Dormition Cathedral in Kyiv during a June 2026 attack, burning the roof of one of Ukraine's oldest and most significant religious sites. The cathedral, built in the 11th century, is part of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery complex and holds UNESCO World Heritage status.
Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski of the Ukrainian Eparchy of the Holy Family of London condemned the strike in a statement released shortly after the attack. He called the targeting of a UNESCO World Heritage site an "affront to global civilisation" and said the destruction of sacred spaces is a deliberate tactic to break the spirit of the Ukrainian people.
The World Council of Churches issued a separate statement demanding an immediate end to what it called Russia's "illegal, immoral invasion." The organization called on member churches worldwide to pray for Ukraine and to press their governments to support a ceasefire.
Premier Christian News reported that nine people were killed in the broader wave of Russian attacks that accompanied the cathedral strike. A historic monastery was also set on fire during the same assault.
Ukrainian officials said the attack on the cathedral was not accidental. They said Russia has repeatedly targeted cultural and religious sites as part of a strategy to erase Ukrainian identity.
International religious leaders have increasingly spoken out about the destruction of churches and monasteries in Ukraine. Several denominations have called for specific protections for religious sites under international humanitarian law.
