Ukraine has initiated procedures within UNESCO and other international frameworks in response to a recent Russian attack on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, as stated by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
Sybiha emphasized the urgency of these actions, demanding a prompt and adequate response to what he termed state barbarism. He called for decisive reactions from international institutions and capitals, insisting on concrete actions rather than vague statements or silence.
According to Sybiha, the attack on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra has permanently etched Russian President Vladimir Putin’s name among history’s worst barbarians.
The Foreign Minister noted that Putin’s extensive bombardment of Ukraine sends a message to upcoming G7 and European Council summits, indicating a preference for terror over diplomacy.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that on the night of June 15, Russian forces launched a massive combined assault on Ukraine, deploying 70 missiles and 611 drones of various types, primarily targeting Kyiv, with additional strikes on Dnipro and Kharkiv. Air defense systems intercepted 632 targets, including 50 missiles and 582 drones. However, 20 ballistic missiles and 27 attack drones struck 42 locations, with debris from drones landing in 12 areas.
In Kyiv, the latest reports indicate that five individuals lost their lives due to the overnight strike, while 35 others, including two children, sustained injuries. The attack resulted in fires across nearly all city districts and damage to buildings, including residential structures. Significant fires erupted at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, the Mystetskyi Arsenal, and the Dovzhenko Film Studio.
On June 15, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed responsibility for a large-scale attack on “defense-industrial complex” sites in Kyiv, Dnipro, and Kharkiv.
This assault follows Putin’s declaration on June 12 that Russia would escalate its strikes against Ukraine.
The Russian leadership has consistently denied targeting civilian infrastructure during the ongoing full-scale war.
Ukraine has formally requested international intervention following a Russian strike on a historic monastery, highlighting the ongoing conflict's escalation. The attack resulted in casualties and significant damage, prompting calls for decisive global responses.