Dormition Cathedral in Kyiv Hit Amid Russian Attacks

On June 15, 2026, Kyiv’s Dormition Cathedral, a revered Christian site, suffered damage from Russian missile and drone strikes. This event marks over 80 years since the cathedral was initially destroyed during World War II. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, labeling it as a crime against Christian culture.

The strike on the cathedral was part of a broader assault that affected multiple cities, resulting in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. The historic monastic complex housing the cathedral in Kyiv was struck by two drones, as confirmed by President Zelensky on social media.

Videos verified by The New York Times depict fire crews using tall cranes to spray water into the cathedral, with the orange glow of flames visible through the windows against the structure’s white exterior.

The ongoing conflict has seen the destruction of hundreds of Ukrainian landmarks, including religious sites, museums, and libraries. However, this attack on the Dormition Cathedral is particularly significant in the context of cultural heritage.

The Ukrainian Culture Ministry reported that several museums, a film studio, and a collection of costumes were also affected by the attacks.