Patriarch Bartholomew warns against unacceptable peace for Ukraine
Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: a screenshot from ecumenicalpatriarchate video
On February 24, 2026, on the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Patriarch Bartholomew served a memorial service for all victims of the war at the patriarchal cathedral at the Phanar, as reported on the official Facebook page of the Patriarchate.
After the service, Patriarch Bartholomew delivered a speech in which he emphasized that Ukraine needs a “true, just, and lasting peace.” At the same time, he noted that a mere cessation of hostilities does not always mean true peace.
"A battlefield without gunshots is not always peace; it can be an anxious silence, fatigue mistaken for rest, or surrender disguised as pacification," stated the Patriarch of Constantinople and added that true reconciliation requires "recognition of a people's right to determine their own destiny."
He also assured that he remains "resolutely alongside Ukraine at every step until the day of true reconciliation," and expressed hope that the leaders of nations will follow "the narrow path of justice."
In response, Ukraine's Consul General in Turkey Roman Nedilsky thanked the Patriarch for his "firm position that inspires Ukrainians to continue their struggle."
As the UOJ reported, Patriarch Bartholomew promised not to revoke the Tomos from the OCU.
Read also
OCU rep shows red-and-black flag with Savior Not Made by Hands icon and trident
A cleric of Dumenko's structure posted a photo with a unique flag on social media.
US Assembly of Bishops reports declining number of Christians in Ukraine
Participants of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA highlighted the dangers facing believers in Ukraine and the Middle East and called for an end to the hostilities.
Phanar hierarch: Council of Crete decisions also apply to non-attendees
A hierarch of the Patriarchate of Constantinople stated that despite the absence of four Local Churches, the Council in Crete did take place.
Memorial service held for victims of Pryluky missile attack
A memorial service for the deceased residents, including four children, was held at the Transfiguration Cathedral of the UOC in Pryluky.
Vinnytsia Eparchy cleric suspended from ministry for spiritist practices
Archpriest Mykola Hryshchenko has been suspended from ministry in the Vinnytsia Eparchy of the UOC. The faithful are not blessed to attend his services.
UOC and Jerusalem Church clergy concelebrate at Church of Holy Sepulchre
During a pilgrimage trip, the UOC clergy concelebrated with clerics of the Jerusalem Church in the Holy Land.