Albanian Primate discusses situation in Ukraine with ROC DECR Chairman

Archbishop John of Albania and the head of the ROC Department for External Church Relations (DECR), Metropolitan Antony. Photo: Press Service of the Albanian Church
On 12 August 2025, the Primate of the Albanian Church, Archbishop John, received at his residence a delegation of the Russian Orthodox Church headed by Metropolitan Antony of Volokolamsk, Chairman of the DECR, the press service of the Albanian Church reported.
It was noted that the sides “exchanged thoughts on inter-Orthodox relations, as well as on various topics related to the witness of Orthodoxy in the modern world.”
“Special attention was paid to the important issue of peace in Ukraine,” the press release stated.
Representing the Albanian Church at the meeting were Metropolitan Anthony of Elbasan, Metropolitan Nathaniel of Amanatia, and Bishop Anastasios of Kruja.
The ROC DECR delegation included Patriarchal adviser Archpriest Nikolai Balashov and DECR Deputy Chairman Archpriest Igor Yakimchuk.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the ROC DECR Chairman had informed the Pope of Rome about the persecution of the UOC.
Read also
Upper Lavra court hearing postponed
The next court hearing in the Upper Lavra case has been scheduled for November 3.
UOC priest blesses ambulances at Kamianske medical center
A UOC priest in Kamianske blessed ambulances for a medical facility and wished its doctors God's help in their work.
Dumenko to German ambassador: Law targeting UOC also applies to other groups
Epifaniy Dumenko sought to defend Ukraine’s law restricting religious organizations during a meeting with the German ambassador.
Activists bused to court hearings in UOC cases, media say
A minibus has been spotted transporting protesters to and from courthouses where UOC cases are being heard.
Firefighters save historic UOC church from fire in Zakarpattia
A fire broke out at a UOC church in the Tiachiv district, damaging the altar and church furnishings.
Volyn Eparchy faithful collect six tons of aid for Sviatohirsk Lavra
Believers in Volyn collected food and warm clothing for people displaced by the war who have found shelter at Sviatohirsk Lavra.