Matushka Killed in Russian Strike on UOC Church

The burned Dormition Cathedral in Kostiantynivka. Photo: Pokrovsk Vicariate

KOSTIANTYNIVKA — On Oct. 9, 2025, in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk region, the Dormition Cathedral of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) was destroyed by fire following a shelling, according to a report from the Pokrovsk Vicariate.

The outer walls of the church remained standing, but the dome and interior were completely destroyed. Inside the cathedral, everything was consumed by flames. Details of the shelling were not provided. It remains unknown whether the cathedral can be restored.

The vicariate also reported that, as a result of the attack on Kostiantynivka, the matushka (wife) of Priest Sergiy Kovalkov was killed:

"With sorrow, we share that this week in the city of Konstantinovka, Donetsk region, Matushka Daria, the wife of Priest Sergiy Kovalkov, tragically lost her life as a result of enemy shelling.

We humbly ask for prayers for the repose of the newly departed servant of God Daria, and for the comfort of her family and all who mourn her passing."

Previously, UOJ reported that a Russian projectile hit the grounds of St. Catherine Cathedral in Kherson.

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