Pope Leo XIV has urged the faithful to pray for an end to the war in Ukraine, following a recent Russian drone strike that damaged the historic Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. In a social media post, the Pope expressed his concern over the escalating conflict and its toll on innocent lives and cultural heritage.
In his message, he stated, “I am with all those mourning their loved ones, the injured, and those who continue to serve life amid violence.” He called for collective prayers to seek dialogue, reduce hatred, and pave the way for a just and lasting peace.
The drone attack on June 15 targeted the Assumption Cathedral of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, resulting in significant damage not only to the main church but also to numerous other historical structures within the complex. Maxim Ostapenko, director of the National Preserve of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, reported that approximately 80% of the cathedral’s roof was affected. Thankfully, firefighters managed to save valuable cultural artifacts inside the cathedral and protect its iconostasis from the flames.
The blast and debris caused damage to several other sites, including the Kovnirsky Corps, the refectory with the Church of Saints Anthony and Theodosius, the Lavra printing house, and the Kuschynka Tower, a part of the 18th-century fortifications. Additionally, a cross atop the tower was destroyed, along with damage to its dome.
Following the attack, President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, and Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko visited the Lavra. Svyrydenko confirmed that the government would fund the restoration of the Assumption Cathedral, with support also expected from Ukrainian businesses and philanthropists.
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced that Ukraine would initiate procedures through UNESCO and other international mechanisms in response to the attack. The estimated cost for fully restoring the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is around 500 million hryvnias, with a timeline of approximately two years. The Cabinet has allocated funds for urgent repairs to the Assumption Cathedral, focusing on protecting the building from further damage.
Additionally, Zelensky mentioned that Swiss specialists would assist in the restoration efforts following discussions with the President of Switzerland.
Pope Leo XIV has called for prayers for peace in Ukraine after a drone strike damaged the historic Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The Ukrainian government and international partners are mobilizing resources for restoration efforts.