European foreign ministers have denounced the Russian strike on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra during a large-scale assault on Kyiv on June 15, labeling it a war crime and evidence of Russia’s disregard for any boundaries.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot remarked that such an act would be akin to bombing Notre-Dame or the Basilica of Saint-Denis, highlighting the severity of the damage inflicted on the Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
He stated, “This is absolutely unacceptable,” emphasizing the brutality of Russia’s actions.
The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, also condemned the attack, noting the increased assaults on civilians and cultural heritage sites, which he described as war crimes perpetrated by Russia.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul pointed to the attack as indicative of Russia’s unwillingness to engage in peace talks. He stated, “We have once again witnessed despicable attacks from the Russian side, particularly against European cultural values of immeasurable importance, showing a lack of genuine readiness for negotiations.” Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and enhancing sanctions against Russia.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys characterized the attack on the Lavra as an assault on one of the holiest sites in Christianity. He noted that Russia has crossed all red lines, calling for stronger sanctions against Moscow and the adoption of the 21st EU sanctions package.
Budrys criticized the current sanctions proposal as insufficient, pointing out the absence of measures against major Russian energy companies like Rosatom, Rosneft, and Lukoil, as well as a complete ban on maritime services for Russia’s shadow fleet. He warned, “This will be another missed opportunity to demonstrate our strength.”
Barrot echoed the call for continued pressure on Russia, advocating for sanctions against entities supporting the operations of the Russian shadow fleet and individuals responsible for spreading Kremlin propaganda.
According to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Russian troops launched a massive combined strike on Ukraine on the night of June 15, deploying 70 missiles and 611 drones of various types, primarily targeting Kyiv, with additional strikes on Dnipro and Kharkiv. Air defense forces intercepted 632 targets, including 50 missiles and 582 drones, while 20 ballistic missiles and 27 strike drones hit 42 locations, with drone debris falling in 12 areas.
In Kyiv, the latest reports indicate that four individuals lost their lives due to the overnight strike, while 30 others, including two children, sustained injuries. Fires broke out across nearly all city districts, damaging buildings, including residential structures. The attack also resulted in fires at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, the Mystetskyi Arsenal, and the Dovzhenko Film Studio.
This assault follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s declaration on June 12 that Russia would intensify its strikes on Ukraine.
European foreign ministers have condemned a recent Russian attack on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, calling it a war crime and highlighting the ongoing threat to cultural heritage. The assault resulted in casualties and significant damage across Kyiv, with ministers urging stronger sanctions against Russia.
Source: Radio Free Europe