A NATO delegation paid a fact-finding visit to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra

The administration of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve organized a visit for an official NATO delegation to clearly demonstrate to Alliance representatives the risks facing Ukraine’s cultural heritage amid the ongoing conflict. The delegation consisted of about 40 high-ranking officials from 22 countries, including Lieutenant General Remigijus Baltrenas, Director General of NATO’s International Military Staff.

During the tour, the guests were able to view the architectural complex of the Lavra, including the Cathedral of the Dormition, which had previously been damaged by shelling, as well as the Trinity Gate Church. Representatives of the military bloc were shown a thematic exhibition dedicated to the processes of destruction and subsequent restoration of church buildings.

“This event aims to demonstrate to the international community the level of threats facing Ukraine’s historical and cultural monuments,” the reserve’s administration emphasized. The event also included a cultural segment: near the recently installed bust of Ivan Mazepa, the sacred hymn “O Great and One God” was performed for the delegates.

As a reminder, we previously reported that the national reserve will restrict access to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra during air raid alerts.