Sybiha gifts U.S. Secretary of State with icon painted on ammunition crate
Sybiha presents Rubio with an Icon of the Mother of God. Photo: Sybiha's Facebook
March 11, 2025 – During peace negotiations between the U.S. and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha presented U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio with an icon of the Mother of God, painted on wooden boards from ammunition crates. Sybiha shared a photo of the gift on his Facebook page.
Sybiha wrote that "Ukraine is ready to move toward a just resolution of the war. Ukraine is not an obstacle to peace; it is a partner in its restoration."
The practice of painting icons on ammunition boxes became popular in Ukraine during the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO). After the full-scale invasion, several Ukrainian artists continued this artistic approach. Sybiha did not specify the artist behind the icon he gifted to the U.S. Secretary of State.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that President Zelensky had presented the Pope with an "icon" featuring an empty space instead of the Infant Jesus.
Read also
Major U.S. hospital network refuses to implement new assisted suicide law
Advocate Health Care said it would not participate in Illinois’ assisted suicide program.
OCU activists call TRC to service of persecuted UOC community in Kremenchuk
After seizing the Holy Trinity Church in Kremenchuk, Dumenko's followers attempted to disrupt the worship service of UOC believers held in the open air.
Bila Tserkva authorities attempting to seize monastery building from UOC
The Bila Tserkva City Council is attempting to reclaim the buildings of the St. Mary Magdalene Convent for communal ownership through the courts.
Egyptian police arrest Christians targeted in Muslim attacks
Copts were released once they withdrew their complaints against their assailants.
Primate of Macedonian Church congratulates Lavra's abbot on name day
Archbishop Stefan noted the zeal of the Lavra's abbot, who shares the sorrows of his flock.
Persecuted community in Stari Broskivtsi marks patronal feast in new church
The rector thanked the faithful for building a new church to replace the one that was seized.