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
Trump says Washington dinner gunman “hates Christians”
The U.S. president said the shooter at the Washington ballroom dinner harbored hatred for Christians and had left behind a “manifesto” targeting officials before the attack.
Holy Spirit Cathedral in Kherson damaged by shelling
The Kherson cathedral sustained major damage: shells destroyed the roof, sparked a fire, and damaged the altar and buildings on the church grounds.
Support rally for Metropolitan Tychikos held in Cyprus
In Paphos, Cyprus, supporters of Metropolitan Tychikos gathered in the square with banners, demanding his reinstatement and adherence to Church canons.
In Britain, Protestant pastor detained for criticizing Islam
In British Watford, a Protestant pastor was detained after a sermon criticizing Islam, with witnesses questioning the grounds for arrest and police actions.
Abbot of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra leads Liturgy at Brailiv Monastery
On the Sunday of the Holy Myrrh-bearing Women, Metropolitan Pavel celebrated the Liturgy in the Vinnytsia Eparchy.
UOC-KP appoints "bishop" for Czech Republic
The head of the UOC-KP appointed a "hierarch" for the communities of his structure in the Czech Republic.