Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting in Istanbul with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, during which the main focus was on issues of security and the future of Ukrainian children suffering from the consequences of Russia’s full-scale aggression, as well as the development of church life in Ukraine.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Protection of Ukrainian Children and Support for the Church
During the negotiations, Zelensky emphasized the importance of helping children who are enduring severe hardships due to the actions of the Russian Federation, and he thanked Patriarch Bartholomew for his support of Ukraine and his constant prayers for the Ukrainian people.
“A key topic of discussion was the fate of Ukrainian children and what they are forced to endure due to Russian aggression.”
The President also briefed the Ecumenical Patriarch on the progress of negotiations aimed at achieving a just and sustainable peace for Ukraine.
Invitation to Patriarch Bartholomew and Other Meetings in Istanbul
In addition to discussing church matters, Zelensky invited Patriarch Bartholomew to visit Ukraine. This visit, according to the president, will be an important gesture of spiritual support for citizens in a year when the country is preparing for the 35th anniversary of its independence.
During his stay in Istanbul, the President of Ukraine also held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and the meeting with the Ecumenical Patriarch was one of the key events on the agenda of the visit.