Saint Sophia Cathedral suffers damage from Russian strikes
- Saint Sophia Cathedral was damaged by a Russian strike, marking the first time it has been hit since World War II.
- Experts and officials are assessing the damage and beginning restoration work on the cathedral.
- The attack has drawn attention to the ongoing threats to Ukraine's cultural heritage amid the conflict.
In Kyiv, Ukraine, Saint Sophia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sustained damage due to a Russian attack. The assault marked the first direct hit on the cathedral since World War II, according to Vadym Kyrylenko, deputy director of the national reserve overseeing the site. Following the incident, Culture Minister Mykola Tochytskyi stated that the cathedral symbolizes the essence of Ukrainian identity and culture, referring to it as the 'soul of Ukraine'. Restoration efforts are already underway to assess and repair the damage inflicted, which included the destruction of parts of the facade due to the blast wave. The cathedral, constructed in the 11th century, represents one of Ukraine's pivotal historical monuments and is admired for its architectural beauty, particularly its white walls, green roofs, and golden domes. The site has been under threat since Russia's full-scale invasion beginning in February 2022, leading UNESCO to place it on the World Heritage in Danger list. Mykola Tochytskyi emphasized that ongoing attacks not only jeopardize physical structures but also target the cultural memory and future of Ukraine itself. As the situation in Kyiv evolves, air defense remains a critical concern, with drones frequently flying dangerously close to the historic structure. Reports indicate that the cathedral is not only a national symbol but also a point of reference for the architectural significance established during the Kyivan Rus period. Despite the recent damage, officials reassure the public that the integrity of the site will be upheld through detailed inspections and forthcoming restoration measures. The attack has sparked outrage among Ukrainians and the international community, with many expressing that the destruction of such cultural monuments is a grave assault on humanity's shared heritage. Young artists and residents alike have voiced their dismay over the incident, highlighting the deep emotional ties Ukrainians have to the cathedral and its representation of their heritage.