June 15 attack on Kyiv
During the night of June 15, Kyiv came under another assault from Russia, resulting in extensive damage. One of the hardest-hit sites was the National Oleksandr Dovzhenko Film Studio, where a fire broke out and destroyed Ukraine's largest and oldest costume collection. The studio housed roughly one hundred thousand costumes and three million pieces of various clothing. Other buildings and facilities on the studio grounds were also damaged in the attack.
Additionally, strikes hit the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the roof of the Dormition Cathedral caught fire. Thanks to a swift evacuation, sacred relics and liturgical items from the monastery were saved. In the Pechersk district, a five-story residential building was struck; in the Obolon district, a residential building was hit between the third and fourth floors; and in the Solomianskyi district, a nine-story residential building was targeted.
Reactions and aftermath
Commenting on the attack, Tymur Tkachenko stated:
“The Russians deliberately struck at the heart of one of the greatest Christian shrines.”It is worth noting that the film studio had previously sustained damage during an attack on Kyiv on the night of June 2, as well as during a massive shelling of the capital in July 2025.
The affected districts of Kyiv include:
- Pechersk
- Obolon
- Solomianskyi
Damaged sites include:
- National Oleksandr Dovzhenko Film Studio
- Kyiv Pechersk Lavra
- Residential buildings
This attack underscores the ongoing threat to Ukraine's cultural and historical landmarks, as well as to the homes of the capital's residents.
This incident serves as another reminder of the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, which has devastating consequences not only for human lives but also for cultural heritage. Strikes on such critical sites as the National Film Studio and the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra jeopardize the preservation of Ukrainian history and national identity. Rebuilding the damaged structures will require substantial effort and resources, highlighting the need for continued international support during this difficult period.
The recent missile strike also affected other cultural institutions in Kyiv, highlighting the ongoing risk to the city’s artistic heritage. Notably, the damage to Kyiv's Ivan Franko Theater and Opera House further emphasizes the urgent need to protect these vital landmarks amidst the conflict.