President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with members of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of National Unity Oleksiy Chernyshov, Deputy Head of the Office of the President Olena Kovalska, and Head of the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience Viktor Yelensky.
The Head of State expressed condolences over the passing of Pope Francis. Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the role of the Pontiff and the Vatican in facilitating the return of Ukrainian children and the release of prisoners.
The President extended Easter greetings to representatives of Christian denominations and congratulated the Jewish community on Passover. He thanked the clergy for their prayers and for supporting Ukrainian warriors and all people throughout the war.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined Ukraine’s position regarding the unconditional ceasefire.
“Ukraine is the first to seek an end to this war. Important meetings will take place in the coming days with the participation of both U.S. and European representatives,” he noted.
The Head of State expressed gratitude to the churches and religious organizations for their advocacy in support of Ukraine worldwide, aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace, conveying the truth about the war and the heroic struggle of the Ukrainian people, and reflecting the real state of freedom of conscience in Ukraine.
During the meeting, the President and the clergy discussed further development of military chaplaincy, which continues to provide essential support to Ukraine’s defenders on the frontline.
The demographic challenges facing Ukraine as a result of Russian aggression were also addressed. The President emphasized that the Ministry of National Unity was established specifically to help Ukrainians who were forced to leave their homes due to Russian aggression maintain their connection to their homeland. In particular, Unity Hubs are being opened in other countries to support them.
