The Russian Ministry of Defense claims that a Ukrainian air defense missile struck the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra

The Russian Ministry of Defense claims that the strike on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra was carried out by a missile from Ukraine’s Patriot air defense system, while the Ukrainian side claims that a Russian “Shahed” drone struck the Cathedral of the Dormition. According to Ukrainian officials, the attack damaged historical sites within the Lavra, but the fire was contained.

According to Echo, a report from the Russian Defense Ministry states that the Lavra building was struck by a missile from the American Patriot air defense system. The Russian Ministry of Defense also stated that one possible reason for the strike could have been the transfer of “expired” missiles to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian side offers a different account of the incident. Maksym Ostapenko, director of the reserve, reported that a Russian “Shahed” drone struck the main church of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra—the Assumption Cathedral. According to him, the strike hit the altar area of the church.

According to the information provided, the fire on the Lavra’s grounds has now been contained. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko posted a video showing the aftermath of the attack. Additionally, as noted in the report citing Ukrainian media, a second strike damaged the Tower of Ioann Kushnik—a defensive structure dating from the 17th–18th centuries.

The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is one of Ukraine’s key historical and religious sites. Reports of damage to its structures have sparked widespread outrage amid ongoing mutual accusations between the parties during the hostilities.