Russian Airstrikes Kill Nine as Historic Kyiv Monastery Suffers Major Damage

At least nine people were killed and dozens injured after Russia launched one of its largest air attacks on Ukraine in recent weeks. Four people died in Kyiv, while five others, including emergency workers, were killed in Kharkiv. Authorities said more than 30 people were injured in the capital.

The overnight assault damaged residential buildings, power infrastructure and cultural sites across several regions. Around 140,000 residents temporarily lost electricity after strikes damaged power lines.

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Damaged in Missile Strike

One of the most significant incidents was a fire at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, a historic monastery founded in 1051 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ukrainian officials said a strike hit the complex, causing serious damage to the Dormition Cathedral, one of the country’s most important religious landmarks.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict Intensifies

Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched 70 missiles and 611 drones overnight, with air defenses intercepting most of them. Meanwhile, Ukraine carried out drone attacks inside Russia and targeted supply routes linked to Crimea. The attacks came as President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed peace efforts with US President Donald Trump ahead of international meetings this week.