Zelensky thanks the head of Phanar for support

Zelensky and Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: Presidential Office

On March 14, 2025, Zelensky held a phone conversation with Patriarch Bartholomew, during which he expressed his gratitude for the Patriarch’s support. Zelensky shared this information on his Telegram channel.

During the conversation, the president briefed the head of the Phanar on the details of negotiations in Saudi Arabia, where "we supported the U.S. proposal for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire in the air, at sea, and on land."

"Among the first steps toward a just and lasting peace must also be the release of prisoners of war, civilians, and the return of deported Ukrainian children," Zelensky told Bartholomew.

According to him, Ukraine and the entire world seek peace, "and only Russia is unwilling to end the war and is looking for ways to continue it."

"We must take steps toward peace and exert pressure on the only reason the war is still ongoing," Zelensky stated, thanking Bartholomew "for his willingness to make efforts for peace – a peace that we can certainly bring closer."

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Patriarch Bartholomew publicly supported Zelensky after the White House scandal, stating that he "recognizes President Zelensky’s tireless efforts to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity."

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