CoE: Russia must compensate for the damage to Ukraine’s churches
Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe. Photo: Ukrinform
The restoration of Ukraine's cultural heritage should become a key topic at the upcoming conference on the country's reconstruction, which will be held in Rome in 2025. Local authorities should document the damage, according to the resolution of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, reports Ukrinform.
The document emphasizes that the destruction and looting of cultural sites in Ukraine appear to be part of a systematic policy aimed at erasing the country's historical and cultural identity, which is comparable to genocidal intent.
The Congress also calls on local and regional authorities in Europe to increase their support for Ukraine in this area and to establish partnerships for the protection of cultural heritage. Key aspects of assistance include documenting the damage, digitization, as well as the protection and stabilization of both tangible and intangible heritage.
The resolution was supported by 122 delegates, with only one vote against it. The document also states that Russia must pay compensation for the damage caused to Ukraine’s cultural, historical, and religious heritage. Ukrainian local authorities should actively participate in the work of the Damage Register and in submitting claims for compensation.
The Congress praised the role of local and regional authorities in maintaining the resilience of state institutions and ensuring essential services for the population.
As reported by the Ukrainian MP, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) adopted a resolution urging the recognition of the Russian Orthodox Church as a tool of Russian influence and propaganda.
Read also
St. Nicholas Church parish of Dnipro delivers aid to Kherson region residents
Believers of the Dnipropetrovsk Eparchy carried out a humanitarian mission to the Kherson region.
Celebrations honoring miraculous icon of Theotokos begin at Pochaiv Lavra
The festive All-Night Vigil at the Pochaiv Lavra began with an akathist before the miraculous Pochaiv Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos.
Metropolitan Nathanael consecrates iconostasis in Nosachevychi
The ruling bishop of the Volyn Eparchy led the Divine Liturgy at the St. Equal-to-the-Apostles Mary Magdalene Church, where he consecrated the iconostasis.
Police officers in England invited to observe Ramadan fast in solidarity
British police officers of all faiths have been encouraged to observe the Ramadan fast alongside their Muslim colleagues to better understand the significance of Islam's holiest month.
Canadian military advises chaplains to avoid prayers and references to God
Canada's Armed Forces have introduced new guidance encouraging military chaplains to replace traditional prayers with neutral "spiritual reflections" at official ceremonies to accommodate service members of all beliefs, including atheists.
Faithful at Lavra urged to remain loyal to Christ despite trials
During a prayer vigil, a priest recalled the Gospel examples of the Apostle Peter and St. Mary Magdalene, Equal-to-the-Apostles, speaking about the power of faith.