In a symbolic show of faith and diplomacy, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholemew I met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in New York on Monday, September 22, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, and delivered clear message of solidarity with Ukraine.

Joined by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the Patriarch reaffirmed the Church’s absolute support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people, while unequivocally condemning Russia’s “brutal and aggressive war.” He voiced his hope for a rapid end to the conflict, calling for a “victorious peace” to arrive soon.

President Zelensky invited Bartholomew to visit Ukraine, emphasising the significance of the spiritual and moral support that the Ecumenical Patriarchate provides during these trying times, and particularly as the nation endures nearly three years of Russia’s invasion.

During the meeting, Patriarch Bartholomew presented Zelensky with a book on Ukraine written by Archbishop Elpidophoros.

Also present at the meeting were Metropolitans Theodoritos of Laodicea, and Maximos of Selybria, the Very Reverend Grand Ecclesiarch Aetios, Director of the Private Patriarchal and Grand Protopresbyter Alexander Karloutsos. Senior Ukrainian government officials also participated in the meeting.