Ukraine's Foreign Ministry discusses fate of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra with Vatican

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and the Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine, Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas. Photo: Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

On August 10, 2026, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met with the Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine, Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, and discussed issues related to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra with the Vatican representative, as reported on the Facebook page of Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The parties reviewed the results of recent contacts and discussed further development of dialogue with the Vatican, humanitarian issues, and the preservation of Ukraine’s Christian and cultural heritage. Particular attention was paid to the restoration of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra and the celebration of its 975th anniversary.

Thus, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister discussed the future of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra with a Vatican representative. The Lavra is one of Ukraine’s main Orthodox shrines and a pilgrimage site for the faithful. The ministry said it is important for the country to preserve the shrine and pass it on to future generations.

Sybiha also highlighted the Vatican’s humanitarian support for Ukraine. According to him, the sides agreed to continue close cooperation and develop joint practical initiatives.

The meeting also covered recent visits by Vatican representatives to Ukraine and events marking the 25th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s apostolic visit.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the director of the Reserve, Maksym Ostapenko, told diplomats that the Lavra should become a "Ukrainian Vatican" and called for "squeezing out" the "Russian world" from it.

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