Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew called for peace to Ukraine and Russia and said, “The growing tension between Ukraine and Russia, the violent rhetoric and the possibility of a war in Europe should be strictly opposed. We call for lasting peace, stability and justice in the region.”
Patriarch Bartholomew prayed for peace for Ukraine and Russia after the service at the Aya Yorgi Church in the Istanbul Patriarchate.
Stating that disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, Bartholomew said that in this process, Ukraine and Russia, as well as the whole world, should be constructive in this regard.
Stating that they wish peace for the region and the world as the Istanbul Patriarchate, Bartholomew said, “Our duty is to pray for and actively contribute to the peaceful resolution of conflicts and the unconditional respect and protection of human rights and dignity.”
Reminding the call of Pope Francis about Ukraine and Russia, Bartholomew said, “As our dear brother Pope Francis said, ‘War is madness’. All religious representatives, well-meaning people, each of us must make a peaceful call,” he said.
“Violence Brings Drama and Death”
Patriarch Bartholomew stated that he made a call to all parties and humanity, and said:
“We call on the parties to respect international law in order to end the conflict and allow all Ukrainians to live in harmony. Weapons are not the solution. On the contrary, it brings violence, drama and death. Silence and indifference is not an option. There is no peace without constant vigilance. Increasing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, violent rhetoric and the possibility of a war in Europe should be strictly opposed. We call for lasting peace, stability and justice in the region.” (AA)
