News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Putin.jpg
American Photo Archive
Putin.jpg
American Photo Archive
World News

Orthodox Patriarch backs Putin's claims that Ukraine is 'Russian land'

by Sophie Drew

The Patriarch of Moscow is backing Vladimir Putin's claims that Ukraine is not independent. 

Patriarch Kirill spoke of those 'who inhabit Russian land' in Ukraine and Belarus during his preach in Moscow on Sunday, March 20.

The Orthodox figurehead shared hopes of 'fraternal relations' between the two nations, which have been at war for almost a month. 

Russian forces continue to bomb areas of Ukraine. Kherson fell to Russian forces just days ago, whilst the situation in Mariupol grows increasingly desperate. 

Speaking to a congregation in Christ the Saviour Cathedral in Moscow, he said: "May the Lord protect the Russian land and the peoples who today inhabit this land in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. 
All of us, representatives of these three peoples, are connected by a single Slavic culture."

"Our most important prayer must be that the devil does not permit brother to raise hand against brother. . . We are a united people, who, though living today in different countries, came out of a single Kiev baptismal font, united by a common faith and common historical destiny."

He then went on to say that it was "essential to defend God's truth" and talked of "common national identity" between Ukraine and Russia. 
D
espite the words shared by Patriarch Kirill, a number of Orthodox leaders have condemned the invasion of Ukraine.
 

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate