Head of Phanar: Christ has risen – so will Ukraine rise

Head of Phanar supports Zelensky. Photo: OP website

On February 23, 2025, at the Church of St. Nicholas in Djibali, the head of Phanar, Patriarch Bartholomew, delivered an inspiring speech in which he expressed support for Volodymyr Zelensky and called for Ukraine’s inclusion in the negotiation process. This was reported by Phanar’s press service.

He noted that after three years of war, "countless lives have been lost, homes have been destroyed, and entire communities displaced."

"Families remain divided, cities lie in ruins, and millions have been forced into exile. This war has left deep wounds – not only on the land but also in the hearts of those who suffer," lamented the head of Phanar.

He acknowledged that Ukrainians are in great need of peace but insisted that "true peace cannot be dictated by force or external whims."

"This process must include Ukraine as an equal participant, affirm its right to exist without fear, and bring healing to a land devastated by war. We recognize President Zelensky’s tireless efforts to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and integrity," Patriarch Bartholomew stated.

Reflecting on the Last Judgment, the head of Phanar asserted that "the war in Ukraine is not merely a conflict between nations; it is a moral test for Europe and the entire world, demanding a choice between truth and deception, between justice and oppression."

"As Christ’s Passion was followed by His Resurrection, so too do we believe that Ukraine will rise again, that the darkness of war will not last forever, and that the light of righteousness will shine once more," the head of Phanar assured.

In the context of the Ukrainian situation, he promised to "continue speaking the truth, defending justice, and standing by those who suffer."

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the OCU suggested every Ukrainian should "follow Zelensky’s difficult path."

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