Italy pledges to help restore Odesa Cathedral damaged by Russian attack

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni has said that her country is ready to contribute to the reconstruction of the Transfiguration Cathedral in Odesa, which was damaged by a missile attack by Russian occupation forces.

Following the recent Russian missile attacks on the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa, the Italian government has publicly expressed deep concern and distress. 

The attacks on Odesa, the deaths of innocent people, and the destruction of the Transfiguration Cathedral deeply sadden us, says PM's press service.

Meloni stressed that Russian troops are destroying grain warehouses, depriving millions of people of food, and ruining "our European civilization, its sacred symbols."

A free people will not allow itself to be intimidated, barbarism will not win. Italy, with its unique experience in restoration in the world, is ready to join the reconstruction of the cathedral and other treasures of Ukraine's cultural heritage.

Deputy Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani echoed this sentiment, describing the destruction of the cathedral as a "shameful act" and pledging Italy's support in the reconstruction efforts.

Tajani further highlighted Italy's role in supporting Odesa's bid to become a UNESCO heritage site, indicating that the country will continue to stand with the city in the aftermath of these devastating attacks.

On the night of July 23, Russian troops attacked the Odesa region with at least five types of missiles, including cruise Kalibr, Onyx, X-22, missiles, and ballistic Iskander. Air defense forces destroyed a significant number of targets.

So far, one civilian has been reported dead, and 19 people have been injured, including four children.

The attack destroyed six residential buildings, including apartment buildings. Architectural monuments and a church were also damaged.

Russian missile attacks on the night of July 22-23 caused significant damage to Odesa's historic Transfiguration Cathedral, the city administration reported.

The building was partially destroyed, and a number of Orthodox shrines were damaged.

On July 21, UNESCO condemned the Russian military attacks on Odesa's historic center, named a world heritage site earlier this year. UNESCO listed "religious buildings" as among the reasons the city center deserved this designation.