Zelensky shows Trump photos of Lavra's burning Dormition Cathedral
Zelensky and Trump at the G7 summit. Photo: AFP
At the G7 summit in France, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky showed Donald Trump photographs of the burning Dormition Cathedral of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. According to Politico, the images deeply affected the U.S. president and influenced his attitude toward supporting Ukraine.
The behind-the-scenes strategy for the meeting was reportedly prepared by French President Emmanuel Macron. He is said to have carefully considered how to influence Trump and chose to do so through images of damaged churches. Diplomats noted that photographs of the Lavra became a key factor in persuading Trump to sign a joint declaration on “unwavering support” and new arms deliveries.
As a result, G7 leaders, including the United States, agreed on tougher sanctions and new defense measures for Kyiv. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said that Washington’s position had become “more realistic” following the meetings. Despite the temporary diplomatic success, analysts point out that these agreements remain fragile and could change at any moment.
As the UOJ reported, Zelensky discussed the strike on the Lavra with Patriarch Bartholomew.
Read also
Konovalets temporarily reinterred at a cemetery in Kyiv
The remains of OUN founder Konovalets have been temporarily reinterred at a cemetery in Kyiv; the ashes will later be transferred to the Ukrainian National Pantheon.
Doctor: Ukraine needs eight children per woman to restore 2022 population
The director of the Kyiv Perinatal Center said that to restore Ukraine’s population to its 2022 level, every woman would have to give birth to eight children.
Cherkasy RMA head reports Uman's preparations for Hasidic pilgrims' visit
Uman will strengthen security measures, medical services, transportation, and checkpoints, and an operational headquarters will be established for the duration of Rosh Hashanah celebrations.
In Italy, RCC priest commits suicide over transfer to another parish
In Italy, a 75-year-old Roman Catholic priest took his own life after after the announcement of a transfer from the parish where he had served for nearly 25 years.
UOC believers in Yakushyntsi call to protect their churches from seizure
Parishioners of St. Nicholas Church and the Church of Seraphim of Sarov declared a violation of their religious rights and asked the international community to pay attention to the situation.
Protestant missionary abducted by militants released in Niger
An American Protestant missionary spent nearly ten months in captivity in Niger, where Islamist militant activity has intensified.