Vatican embassy in Kyiv badly damaged in drone attack

In Ukraine, during a significant incident on Thursday, July 10, 2025, the Apostolic Nunciature, which serves as the Vatican's diplomatic mission in Kyiv, suffered considerable damage due to a drone and missile attack. This attack was part of a broader escalation of hostilities aimed at various locations within the capital, highlighting the ongoing conflicts in the region. The Apostolic Nunciature is located in Kyiv's Shevchenkivskyi district, an area known for hosting several foreign embassies and thus frequently targeted in recent attacks by opposing forces. Eyewitness accounts provided by Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, the Apostolic Nuncio, describe a tense situation where he observed drones flying in proximity to the mission and nearby residential buildings moments before explosions occurred. He reported hearing multiple explosions, with two being remarkably close to their premises. This close-call situation underscored the dangers that both the staff and local residents face amidst the ongoing conflict. Damages to the nunciature included impacts on the main building's roof and the garage, alongside service areas, showcasing the attack's direct impact on the structure. In addition, fragments from the drones struck two nearby apartment buildings, which were located only 230 to 300 feet away, emphasizing the perilous environment in which the nunciature operates. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries among those residing at the diplomatic mission. Moreover, this attack came just one day after an important meeting between Pope Leo and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who expressed a desire for the Vatican to play a role in facilitating peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. The timing of the attack raises questions about the motives behind such assaults and whether they serve to undermine diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.