Kyiv Pechersk Lavra damaged in Russian strike, Pope calls for prayers

A Russian missile and drone assault on Kyiv damaged the historic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, igniting a fire that harmed the Dormition Cathedral’s roof, frescoes and iconostasis. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, and authorities evacuated ancient icons, liturgical cloths and other priceless relics, temporarily closing the UNESCO‑listed site to visitors.

Pope Leon XIV responded on social media, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of cultural and religious heritage and urging worldwide prayers for an end to the violence. He called for dialogue and a just, lasting peace. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha thanked the Pope, describing the destruction of churches as a tragedy for all Christians.

The attack was part of a broader overnight Russian offensive on Kyiv that involved around 60 missiles and drones, underscoring the ongoing threat to Ukraine’s cultural landmarks amid the conflict.