Amid preparations for the G7 summit in Chișinău, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held an important phone call with the head of the Ecumenical Patriarchate — Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. The reason for the conversation was the recent Russian attack on one of the most revered Christian holy sites — the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
"Barbarism with no justification"
According to the Ukrainian leader, Patriarch Bartholomew took an "absolutely clear moral stance". The head of the Ecumenical Patriarchate called the Russian drone strikes on the Lavra barbarism, emphasizing that this attack on a holy site is not only against Ukraine but against the entire Orthodox world.
"I am grateful to His All-Holiness for his support," noted Zelenskyy, highlighting the importance of the international reaction to the destruction of this historical and spiritual center.
Invitation to Ukraine
During the conversation, the parties also discussed possible formats for personal meetings. The President of Ukraine personally invited Patriarch Bartholomew to visit the country. "Thank you for your prayers for Ukraine and our people," added Zelenskyy, concluding the call.
Context of the attack
The attack on the Lavra occurred on the night of June 15 during a massive assault by Russian forces on Kyiv. A large number of ballistic missiles, hypersonic vehicles, and drones were launched at the capital. One of the drones hit the monastery grounds directly, causing a fire that is visible in photos from the scene — traces of fire, firefighters at work, and damage to the temple roof can be seen.
The attack has caused a wide resonance worldwide. RBK-Ukraine notes that the reaction of the international community to this incident is becoming increasingly severe, especially from religious and cultural institutions.