Nine killed, historic monastery on fire as Ukraine faces major Russian attacks

Kyiv endured its most intense Russian air assault in two weeks, resulting in at least four fatalities and significant damage to the revered Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery, a cornerstone of Ukrainian spiritual and cultural heritage. The strikes occurred as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported discussing conflict resolution efforts with U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of a G7 summit.

“

A Russian strike on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra set the Dormition Cathedral on fire – a church whose history dates back to the 11th century. And this is one of Russia’s most serious crimes against Christian culture to date.

The central Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery, established in 1051 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, sustained severe damage. President Zelenskyy decried the attack on the Dormition Cathedral within the monastery, a church with 11th-century origins, labeling it one of Russia's most egregious offenses against Christian civilization. The assault, which sent flames soaring over the monastery complex, prompted residents to seek shelter underground.

Authorities reported that the overnight barrage included 70 missiles and 611 drones targeting Ukraine. While air defenses successfully intercepted the majority, including 582 drones and 50 missiles, Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat noted that ballistic missiles remain a persistent challenge, with only 15 out of 34 launched being shot down. The attacks also impacted civilian infrastructure, causing power outages for approximately 140,000 residents, though power was later restored to most.

“

Ballistic missiles remain a problem for us. Of the 34 ballistic missiles launched, only 15 were shot down, although that is a strong result.

Metropolitan Epifaniy, head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, questioned the international community's response, asking what further actions by Russia would compel decisive action to end its "terror against Ukraine." Neighboring Poland briefly scrambled fighter jets due to a potential airspace incursion but later confirmed no violation occurred. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced immediate procedures within UNESCO and other international bodies to address the "state barbarism" of the monastery attack.

“

What more must the Kremlin Antichrist do for the world to realise that decisive action must be taken so that the Russian terror against Ukraine and the very principles of peace come to an end?