The Vatican Embassy in Kyiv sustained damage following a Russian drone attack early Thursday morning, according to embassy officials.
The Apostolic Nunciature, which serves as the Vatican’s diplomatic mission in Ukraine, reported structural damage to its main building and service areas. Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, the Vatican ambassador to Ukraine, confirmed that parts of the embassy’s roof and parking garage were hit.
“I personally saw drones flying over the area where the embassy is located and heard several explosions during the night,” Archbishop Kulbokas stated. Despite the damage, he assured that all personnel are safe and accounted for.
The airstrikes coincided with the opening of an international conference in Rome focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine, now entering its third year. During the summit, international leaders pledged billions of dollars in aid to support Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction efforts.
The Vatican maintains formal diplomatic relations with 180 countries. Its diplomats, including ambassadors, are known for remaining at their posts even in times of war or crisis.
This latest attack adds to the growing concern over the safety of diplomatic missions in Ukraine amid continued Russian aggression.
