Today’s attack was most extensive in terms of damage to cultural institutions in Kyiv, – Berezhna. PHOTOS
A massive combined Russian attack on the night of Sunday 24 May resulted in the most extensive series of damage to cultural institutions in Kyiv since the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister for Humanitarian Policy and Minister of Culture of Ukraine Tetiana Berezhna, reports Censor.NET.
"A very difficult night for Ukraine. Numerous missiles and kamikaze drones targeting the civilian population. The most extensive series of damage to cultural institutions in Kyiv since the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine," the statement reads.
Which institutions have been damaged
Overnight, the Russians damaged:
- The National Art Museum of Ukraine,
- the National "Chernobyl" Museum,
- the National Philharmonic of Ukraine,
- National Music Academy of Ukraine,
- The Yaroslav the Wise National Library of Ukraine,
- Kyiv Opera House,
- numerous architectural landmarks, including the Kontraktova House and the Post Office.
In addition, some of the front-facing windows at the Ukrainian House were damaged.
It is noted that experts and relevant services are currently documenting all the consequences of the attack and assessing the extent of the damage.
"Russia is systematically targeting the culture and spaces that shape Ukrainian identity. They are trying to destroy our memory. But Ukrainian culture has survived before and will survive now," the minister emphasised.
Russian strikes on cultural heritage
It is reported that, as of today, Russia has already destroyed or damaged 1,783 cultural heritage sites and 2,540 cultural infrastructure facilities in Ukraine. This is further proof that Russia’s war is also directed against Ukrainian culture and identity.
"We are documenting every crime against Ukraine’s cultural heritage and continue to work with international partners on restoration. To this end, we have established the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Fund," Berezhna added.
The aftermath of the strikes
What led up to this?
- Earlier reports indicated a massive Russian strike on Kyiv: one person was killed, over 20 were injured, and there is significant damage in eight districts.
- According to updated information, there are two fatalities and over 40 casualties in Kyiv. Three people are in a critical condition.
- The Lukyanivska metro station is closed following a massive Russian shelling: there is damage.
- The enemy also launched a massive attack on the Kyiv region with missiles and drones: there are casualties and damage across all districts.
- According to Ignat, the enemy struck Bila Tserkva with an "Oreshnik".
- It later emerged that two people had been killed in the Kyiv region as a result of the Russian attack, and an infant was among the injured.
- In addition, Russian forces attacked the Kirovohrad region: buildings have been damaged.
- In Cherkasy, a high-rise building was damaged, with 11 people injured.
