**Vatican Embassy in Kyiv Damaged by Russian Airstrikes**
A bombshell explosion rocked the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, as Russian drone and missile strikes lit up the night sky. The attack came on a day when international leaders were gathering in Rome to discuss the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
One of the targets of the Russian airstrikes was the Vatican’s embassy in Kyiv, which sustained minor damage. According to a statement released by the embassy, the main building and service areas were affected by the attack. Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, the Vatican’s ambassador to Ukraine, witnessed drones circling around the embassy grounds and heard several explosions overnight.
“It was quite striking to see explosions happening right nearby,” said Archbishop Kulbokas in an interview with Vatican News. The archbishop reported that the attack damaged the embassy’s roof and parking garage, but fortunately, no one was harmed. He also collected large fragments from the explosion, which he believed was caused by a drone rather than a missile.
The Vatican’s embassy in Kyiv is just one of many diplomatic missions operating in Ukraine during this tumultuous period. The Vatican maintains formal relations with around 180 countries and has ambassadors stationed in many world capitals, including Kyiv. Notably, the Vatican’s ambassadors are known for their dedication to remaining on post even during times of conflict, rarely evacuating their embassies.
**Russian Airstrikes Coincide with International Conference**
The Russian airstrikes on Kyiv came as an international conference was convening in Rome to discuss the three-year war between Russia and Ukraine. The conference saw Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy meeting with Pope Leo, who expressed his willingness to host Russia-Ukraine peace talks at the Vatican.
This development is significant given the role that the Catholic Church has played in international diplomacy over the years. As a neutral observer, the Vatican has long been recognized for its ability to facilitate dialogue between nations and promote peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
**What This Means**
The damage to the Vatican’s embassy in Kyiv serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The attack highlights the risks that diplomatic missions face during times of war and underscores the need for continued international support and engagement to bring an end to this tragic conflict.
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