Dormition Cathedral in Kyiv Hit During Russian Missile Strikes

The Dormition Cathedral in Kyiv, a historic and revered Christian site, was heavily damaged during a wave of Russian missile and drone strikes on Monday. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the incident as one of the most significant Russian crimes against Christian culture.

This devastating attack marks a tragic recurrence. Over 80 years ago, the same cathedral was destroyed to its foundation during World War II. The recent strike resulted in fires that engulfed the site, which is a popular destination for Christian pilgrims.

The Ukrainian government reported that these attacks across multiple cities led to the deaths of 11 people and left dozens injured. Two drones specifically targeted the monastic complex in Kyiv where the cathedral stands, as confirmed by President Zelensky in a social media update.

Verified video footage obtained by The New York Times showed brave fire crew members operating tall cranes, dousing flames through the windows of the cathedral, which glowed orange against its otherwise white exterior.

During the ongoing conflict, many Ukrainian religious sites, museums, monuments, and libraries have suffered damage or destruction. However, the attack on the Dormition Cathedral is significant due to its cultural and historical importance.

According to Ukraine’s Culture Ministry, the strikes also hit several museums, a film studio, and an extensive costume collection, adding to the cultural losses experienced by the nation.