“Ukraine’s sovereignty is not to discuss, nor can it be negotiated under the guise of diplomacyAs, “said Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, after the Divine Liturgy today, Sunday, February 23, on the eve of the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In his speech after the operation at the Church of St. Nicholas in Tzavili, Fanari, a church granted to the Ukrainians residing in Constantinople, the Ecumenical Patriarch said, among other things, that any future peacekeeping agreement “It must include Ukraine as an equal participant, confirm its right to exist without fear and to bring healing to a land destroyed by the battles“

“No power can erase the spirit of a people who refuse to bend. No nation has the right to impose his will on another and no force can delete the story of a people“, Said Mr. Bartholomew in his speech in a function attended by relatives and friends of Ukrainian soldiers who are ignored or believed to be held under Russian captivity.

“As we continue to ask our Lord to guide the leaders to find peace, “he said. Bartholomew, ‘we recognize that true peace cannot be dictated by violence or by outside“.

At the same time, he praised Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski for his “tireless attempt” to defend his country’s sovereignty and integrity.

“The international community should not dislike its gaze and not be deceived by false narratives and misinformation. Should not allow oppression to continue or accept compromises that undermine fundamental rights. The future must be built on the stable territory of international law, self -determination and mutual respect -not forced and subjugation“The Ecumenical Patriarch noted.

He continued his speech, stressing that the war in Ukraine is not just a conflict between nations. As he said, ‘It is a moral test for Europe and the whole world. It requires a choice between truth and deception, between justice and oppression. Decisions to be taken today will shape the story, specifying whether the integrity will prevail or whether cruelty and hate will persist“

Concluding his speech, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew said:

“As we are preparing for the Holy and Great Lent, a period of reflection and spiritual renewal, we pray for a renewed commitment to truth, reconciliation and peace. Just as the Resurrection of Christ follows His passions, so do we believe that Ukraine will be resurrected, that the darkness of war will not last and that the light of justice will shine again.

The Ecumenical Patriarchate remains stable in its commitment to Ukraine and its pious people. While we hope for a quick end of the conflict and the healing of the injured, we will continue to tell the truth, defend justice and stand by those who suffer. We expect the day that Ukraine and all nations can live in peace, security and freedom.

May the Lord bless Ukraine with power and perseverance. May it comfort those who mourn, heal those who are in pain and bring freedom to captives. May it guide all humanity to a future where virtue will prevail, the truth will be honored and harmony will come true. “.