PREVIEW

A temporary protective structure seals the roof of the Dormition Cathedral of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra that caught fire due to a Russian drone strike on June 15, Kyiv, Ukraine, July 9, 2026. This year, the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra marks 975 years since its foundation and commemorates Reverend Anthony of the Caves, the monk who established the monastic tradition in Kyivan Rus and co-founded the Lavra. The highlight of this year’s celebrations was the visit of an official delegation from the Monastery of Esphigmenou on Mount Athos. On the night of June 15, the altar and the roof of the Dormition Cathedral were struck by a Russian drone, starting a fire.