Kharkiv metropolitan offers condolences after attacks on Bohodukhiv

Aftermath of the shelling of Bohodukhiv. Photo: Facebook Ukraine Breaking News

On April 23, 2026, Metropolitan Onufriy of Kharkiv and Bohodukhiv addressed the clergy and faithful of the eparchy following massive attacks on Bohodukhiv that caused destruction and suffering among civilians, the eparchial press service reports.

In his address, the hierarch said he had received the news with pain. “With pain in my heart, I receive the news of the massive attacks on the Bohodukhiv community, which in recent days have caused significant destruction to residential buildings and infrastructure and brought fear and suffering to peaceful people,” his statement reads.

The metropolitan expressed condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the Church’s spiritual support. “I offer my sincere condolences to all those affected, to those who have lost their homes, and to families anxious for their loved ones. In these difficult moments, the Church stands beside you, sharing your pain and lifting up prayers for you to the Lord,” he said.

The hierarch also called for prayer for peace and an end to enmity. “I call on the clergy and faithful of the Kharkiv Eparchy to intensify their prayers for peace in our land, for those affected, and for the swift cessation of hostility. May the merciful Lord strengthen the grieving, grant healing to the wounded, and consolation to the sorrowful,” the metropolitan stressed.

In conclusion, he added: “May the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos remain over our land, strengthening us in faith, hope, and love.”

Russian troops have reportedly been carrying out massive strikes on the district with drones for the fifth consecutive day. According to the city’s mayor, Volodymyr Bilyi, “110 drones in four days have caused more destruction than in all the years of the full-scale invasion,” with strikes hitting residential buildings, gas stations, and critical infrastructure.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that shelling in Dnipro had destroyed the UOC Orthodox cultural center "Lestvytsia."

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