An 80-year-old man, Mustafa Dzhemilev, describes the damage caused by a Russian missile attack on the Islamic Cultural Center in Kyiv on September 2nd, stating that the attackers are “barbarians.” The center is a significant location for Crimean Tatar Muslims in Ukraine and experienced damage when a missile landed in its yard, causing structural collapse, shattered windows, and debris. Ukraine’s Air Force intercepted multiple missiles and drones launched by Russia, with three people injured in the attack. The missile strike also damaged other buildings in the capital, highlighting the widespread destruction caused by the ongoing conflict.
Russian forces have targeted over 500 religious sites in Ukraine since the start of the invasion, including mosques, churches, and synagogues, which President Zelensky referenced in August. Despite the damage to the Islamic Cultural Center, which also hosted events for Muslims serving in the military and Crimean Tatars, the community remains resilient. Muslim leaders and volunteers come together to clean up debris, praying in the center’s yard amid the destruction. The mosque is set to continue functioning, although repair work is needed to restore the damaged areas. The solidarity and determination of the community to rebuild symbolize their resistance against Russian aggression.
Following the missile attack, Muslim leaders and officials visit the Islamic Cultural Center to inspect the damage and show support for the community. Ambassadors from Turkey, Pakistan, and South Africa express their solidarity, while individuals like 37-year-old Ruslan Aliiev skip work to help clean up the mosque. An outpouring of international support and calls from allies demonstrate the global attention and concern for the situation in Ukraine. Despite the challenges, community members come together to rebuild and restore the center, emphasizing their commitment to defending their religious and cultural heritage.
The involvement of women like artist Lenie Ibragimova in cleaning up the mosque reflects the united front presented by the community against Russian aggression. Crimean Tatars and Muslims in Ukraine demonstrate resilience and determination in the face of destruction, symbolizing their refusal to back down despite the challenging circumstances. As they gather to pray and assess the damage, the community remains steadfast in their resolve to protect their religious and cultural identity against outside threats. The clean-up efforts represent more than just physical restoration but also a form of resistance and defiance against those seeking to harm their way of life.
The impact of the missile attack extends beyond physical damage, with the symbolic significance of the Islamic Cultural Center as a central hub for the Muslim community in Kyiv. Amid the destruction, the center continues to serve as a place of worship, charity events, and communal gatherings, showcasing the resilience and unity of the community. Despite facing multiple challenges, including the destruction of other mosques in eastern Ukraine, Muslim leaders and volunteers remain committed to rebuilding and protecting their religious sites. The international support and solidarity offer hope and encouragement to the community as they navigate through the aftermath of the attack and work towards restoring the center for future generations.
