Russian Shelling Damages Monastery in Kherson Region

What Happened On March 29, 2026, during a significant military attack, the Annunciation Convent in the village of Pryozerne was damaged by Russian shelling. This incident occurred while a service was ongoing at the convent. The Kherson Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate) confirmed the attack via a Telegram statement. ## Key Details The shelling targeted the Bilozerka territorial community, affecting multiple buildings of the monastery. Reports indicate that a direct hit to the premises led to severe damage, especially to the cell block and utility buildings. Additionally, numerous windows of the church were shattered due to the explosion. Despite the intensity of the shelling, officials confirmed that there were no injuries reported among attendees or the clergy at the convent during the strike. This attack is part of a broader pattern of military aggression affecting religious sites in Ukraine, particularly in areas experiencing ongoing conflict. ## Why It Matters The damage to the Annunciation Convent marks a troubling incident in a series of attacks targeting places of worship in Ukraine. Such actions raise concerns about the impact of military operations on cultural and religious heritage sites. The safety of civilians and religious practitioners remains a pressing issue in the Kherson region as conflict continues. ## Background The Kherson region has been a focal point of conflict since the escalation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine. Local reports have frequently highlighted attacks not only on civilian structures but also on religious institutions. Previous incidents include drone strikes damaging churches in other regions, emphasizing the risks faced by religious communities amidst ongoing military operations in Ukraine. The current situation affects both the spiritual life of communities and their physical safety as the war continues.