France: Attack on Kyiv cathedral is like an attack on Notre Dame
Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- France's Foreign Ministry stated that the attack on the Kyiv Cathedral is comparable to an assault on Notre Dame.
- The ministry condemned the destruction of cultural heritage sites in Ukraine.
- France reiterated its commitment to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
France has drawn a stark parallel between the attack on the Kyiv Patriarchate Cathedral and the devastating fire at Notre Dame in Paris, condemning the destruction of cultural heritage in Ukraine. The French Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement denouncing the assault on the cathedral, a significant religious and cultural landmark.
"The attack on the Patriarchate Cathedral in Kyiv is an attack on the soul of Ukraine and its heritage, just as an attack on Notre Dame would be an attack on the soul of France," the ministry declared. This comparison underscores the deep symbolic significance of the cathedral and the broader cultural loss inflicted by the ongoing conflict.
France has consistently voiced its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity since the full-scale invasion began. The condemnation of the attack on the cathedral is part of a broader diplomatic effort to hold Russia accountable for its actions and to advocate for the protection of Ukraine's cultural treasures. The ministry reiterated its commitment to assisting Ukraine in preserving its rich cultural identity amidst the war.
Originally published by De Volkskrant in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.