Switzerland contributes to protection of Ukraine's Pechersk Lavra cave monastery
Bern, 15.08.2026 — On 15 August 2026, Switzerland will take part in the celebrations marking the 975th anniversary of Kyiv's Pechersk Lavra monastery complex through the Federal Council delegate for Ukraine, Jacques Gerber. To mark the anniversary, Switzerland is announcing a contribution of CHF 600,000 to prepare for the cave monastery's restoration following damage sustained in a Russian air strike in June 2026 – and to protect it from further damage.
Ukraine continues to be targeted by heavy Russian air strikes. On 15 June 2026, the Dormition Cathedral and other historic buildings on the grounds of Pechersk Lavra were significantly damaged. The monastery complex is one of Ukraine's most significant religious and cultural sites and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
At a bilateral meeting between Swiss President Guy Parmelin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 15 June in Geneva, on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Évian, Switzerland offered to assist with assessing the damage.
Protection against further damage
During the anniversary celebrations, the Federal Council delegate for Ukraine, Jacques Gerber, emphasised the importance of cultural heritage for Ukraine's identity and social cohesion. He announced that Switzerland would provide CHF 600,000 for restoration planning to assess the damage caused, as well as for urgent safety and protection measures. The specific work will be carried out by UNESCO in close coordination with the relevant Ukrainian authorities.
Long-term support and rapid assistance
As part of its country programme for Ukraine, Switzerland is providing a total of CHF 1.5 billion for the 2025–28 period. The programme focuses on economic recovery, bolstering public services, protecting the civilian population and promoting peace.
Switzerland combines this long-term commitment with support that can be mobilised rapidly in acute situations. This includes the provision of energy supplies in spring 2026 as well as today's contribution towards protecting the cave monestary, one of Ukraine's most important cultural assets.
Switzerland's support for people affected by the war in Ukraine (FDFA)
Contact / further information
Office of the Federal Council Delegate for Ukraine, c/o EAER Communication
+41 58 462 20 07
info@gs-wbf.admin.ch