Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, more than 700 religious sites have been damaged across Ukraine, and approximately 200 churches and places of worship have been completely destroyed. This was reported by Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha.
According to the minister, since 2022 Russian attacks have systematically targeted not only residential and critical infrastructure, but also the spiritual centers of local communities.
An Attack on Spiritual Heritage
The destroyed and damaged sites include churches of various denominations — Orthodox, Greek Catholic, Protestant congregations, as well as other places of worship. Some are located in frontline regions, while others were struck during large-scale missile and drone attacks on major cities.
Around 200 churches and worship facilities have been completely destroyed. The remaining sites sustained varying degrees of damage, ranging from partial destruction of roofs and facades to severe structural losses.
Call to the International Community
Commenting on the scale of destruction, Sybiha stated:
“Russian terror spares neither churches nor believers. This war against humanity and life must be stopped — through unity with Ukraine and increased collective pressure on Moscow.”
The destruction of churches represents not only material loss, but also an assault on freedom of religion, cultural heritage, and the spiritual identity of the Ukrainian people. Ukraine continues to document these incidents for future international legal assessment and accountability.
