Hovik Avanesov, the Ombudsman for the Cultural Heritage of Artsakh, has raised the alarm over the destruction of the Cathedral of the Protection of the Holy Mother of God in Stepanakert. According to him, satellite data indicate that the cathedral was destroyed between March 3 and April 2, 2026.

Avanesov states that the destruction of the cathedral should not only be documented but should also become an issue on the international legal and political agenda. In his assessment, the actions being carried out against the Armenian cultural heritage of Artsakh are systematic in nature and include the destruction or alteration of the identity of churches, monasteries, cemeteries, khachkars, and other monuments.

He calls on the international community to move from statements to practical action by conducting monitoring, independent expert studies, legal documentation, and implementing accountability mechanisms.

The destruction of the cathedral must serve as a serious warning and prompt action to preserve the remaining Armenian cultural heritage of Artsakh.