UNESCO reacts to strike on Lviv city center but does not mention Russia

That is according to a UNESCO statement seen by Ukrinform.

"UNESCO is deeply alarmed by the 24 March strikes that hit a building in the area of Bernardine Monastery within the World Heritage property of Lviv – the Ensemble of the Historic Center," the organization said.

UNESCO also recalled that cultural property is protected under the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 World Heritage Convention.

"All parties must safeguard heritage and refrain from any acts harming cultural property," the statement added.

The organization also expressed readiness to support the authorities with assessments, protection measures and emergency assistance.

At the same time, UNESCO did not refer to Russia's role in the strike in its statement.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha earlier called on UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay to respond decisively to Russia's strike on central Lviv, which is part of a World Heritage site.

Photo credit: Ihor Fedyk / Ukrinform

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