At least 11 people have been killed and dozens injured following a large-scale overnight Russian missile and drone attack across Ukraine, with one of Kyiv’s most revered religious landmarks suffering significant damage in the bombardment.
The strikes triggered explosions across the Ukrainian capital and ignited a fire at the historic Dormition Cathedral within the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Eastern Orthodoxy’s most important spiritual centers.
Residents across Kyiv spent the night rushing to shelters as air defence systems intercepted incoming missiles and drones overhead, while debris from downed projectiles fell across several districts of the city.
According to Ukrainian authorities, five people were killed and at least 34 others wounded in Kyiv alone. The attacks also caused casualties in other parts of the country, bringing the nationwide death toll to at least 11.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, describing the damage to the monastery complex as a serious assault on Christian heritage and culture.
Founded in the 11th century, the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra holds immense religious significance for Orthodox Christians in both Ukraine and Russia. The monastery’s extensive cave network contains relics of revered saints and remains one of the most visited religious sites in Eastern Europe.
Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia launched 70 missiles and 611 drones during the assault, primarily targeting Kyiv and other strategic regions. Officials said air defence systems successfully intercepted the majority of the incoming threats.
Russia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed carrying out what it described as a “massive strike” against military targets in Kyiv, Kharkiv and Dnipro regions. However, Moscow denied intentionally targeting the monastery, claiming that damage to the religious site was caused by debris from an air defence missile.
President Zelensky rejected the claim, insisting that Russian drones deliberately targeted the monastery district.
Emergency responders worked throughout the morning to contain the fire and assess the damage. Officials reported that the roof of the Dormition Cathedral sustained the most significant destruction, while the cathedral’s interior remained largely intact.
The latest attack comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. Zelensky urged G7 leaders meeting in France to increase pressure on Moscow and revealed that he had informed US President Donald Trump of his willingness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in the United States in pursuit of peace negotiations.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the strike on one of Ukraine’s most treasured cultural and religious landmarks is expected to further intensify international condemnation of the ongoing war.
