UNESCO, Who Did It?

It’s probably the world’s most public secret of the past couple of days.

Every news media — print, broadcast and electronic — wrote about it and added images and video clips about the bombing of the thousand-year-old Ukrainian house of worship.

Fires consumed the domes and top floors of the ancient religious sanctuary located in the capital of Kyiv.

The monastery, a symbol of Ukrainian Christian spiritual culture known as Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, had been designated a historic landmark by the UN’s agency UNESCO. The airborne attack was condemned by many, many institutions around the world.

There was just one detail missing from UNESCO’s press release: who did it? Yes, it was Russia.

In the introductory paragraph the announcement did say the attack happened in the course of the escalation following the invasion by Russia, but that passive remark was all that was brought to light.

Here’s the full text:

The strike reportedly caused significant damage to the exterior and interior of the Dormition Cathedral. Adjacent historic structures, including elements of the Lavra’s fortification complex and Ivan Kushnik Tower, were also reportedly impacted.

UNESCO condemns attacks against cultural property, educational institutions, students, education personnel and media professionals protected under international law. Damage to such institutions deprives communities of access to culture, education, and shared spaces that are essential for recovery and social cohesion.

UNESCO stands ready to support relevant authorities in assessing damage to cultural and educational institutions and identifying urgent measures within its mandate.

Gratefully, the Lavra is protected by UNESCO otherwise the notice would be nonchalant.