In Horlivka, Metropolitan Mitrofan of Horlivka and Sloviansk was injured in a drone attack

On August 23, 2026, the grounds of the Epiphany Cathedral in Horlivka were attacked, reportedly using a “Hornet”-type unmanned aerial vehicle. As a result of the incident, several people sustained injuries of varying severity, including Metropolitan Mitrofan of Gorlovka and Slavyansk.

An official statement from the Gorlovka Diocese’s press service ( ) at confirms that Metropolitan Mitrofan of Gorlovka and Slavyansk was wounded in the attack. The victim was promptly provided with the necessary medical care; according to diocesan representatives, his life is not in danger at this time.

In addition, it has been reported that Roman Stepin, protodeacon of the Epiphany Cathedral, as well as two volunteers from the Patriarchal Humanitarian Mission—Sergey Solodkov and Ekaterina Kuptsova—sustained minor injuries. According to the source, none of these individuals required hospitalization.