Authorities deny claims that icon gifted to Pope depicts Zelensky
Fragment of the icon gifted to the pope and a photo of Zelensky. Collage: UOJ
The Center for Strategic Studies under the Ministry of Culture has denied the claims made by blogger and journalist Anatoliy Shariy, who alleged that the face of the Christ Child on the icon gifted by Zelensky to Pope Leo resembles childhood photos of Zelensky himself.
According to the Center’s staff, “This icon is about Ukrainian children – those who have suffered because of the war, who were deliberately abducted and deported by Russia, and who are desperately awaited at home.”
“The idea that the icon depicts young Volodymyr Zelensky was deliberately fabricated by Shariy to discredit the Ukrainian authorities,” the Center for Strategic Studies stated, calling Shariy “pro-Russian.”
Earlier, the UOJ reported that during his meeting with Pope Leo, Zelensky presented him with an icon painted on wooden boards from an ammunition crate.
Read also
UOC bishops initiate correspondence discussion around Filaret's personality
Metropolitan Luke accused Bishop Sylvester of "legitimizing the schism," and the latter responded by reminding him of the decisions of the Council in Feofania.
In Volyn, "competent bodies" to deal with UOC Sunday schools, media
A deputy of the Volyn Regional Council initiated a request for inspections of all institutions engaged in Orthodox education of children in the region.
UEFA fines French club for banner with RCC saint
The Union of European Football Associations has imposed another fine for the use of Christian symbols by fans.
Evangelist Graham explains to Trump how he can definitely get to Heaven
The preacher called on the president to stop relying on his achievements and pointed out that good deeds do not save from hell without faith and repentance.
Planning for the Holy Fire Ceremony and Holy Week Services revealed
Authorities have imposed restrictions on the participation of clergy and believers in Holy Week services at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Patriarch Daniel sends solidarity message to Primate of Antioch
The head of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church expressed support for John X in connection with the ongoing violence in Syria and Lebanon.