Reaction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to the statements of the Russian Federation
The Ecumenical Patriarchate Bartholomew reacted to the recent statements of the Russian Federation's Foreign Intelligence Service, expressing regret over the attacks on his person. In its statement, the Patriarchate emphasized that such attacks are unfair and improper, and they will not stop his efforts in service and mission.
“The Mother Church of Constantinople, which is also the mother for the Russian Church, expresses deep regret regarding the new Russian attacks on the person of His Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.”
The Ecumenical Patriarchate
These words indicate that the Patriarchate has no intention of yielding under the pressure of false news and insults.
Furthermore, the Ecumenical Patriarchate claims that fabricated scenarios, false news, insults, and various types of fabricated information from propagandists will not force the Ecumenical Patriarchate to cease its ministry and ecumenical mission.
This statement underscores the steadfastness of the Patriarchate in its activities, despite attempts to discredit it from Russian officials.
Autocephaly of the Church of Ukraine
It is worth reminding that in 2018 the Ecumenical Patriarchate granted autocephalous status to the Church of Ukraine, which was an important step in the development of Orthodoxy in the region.
This reaction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to the criticism from Russia reflects the longstanding tensions between Orthodox churches, especially in the context of the autocephaly of the Church of Ukraine. The conflict between the Patriarchate and the Russian Orthodox Church has not only religious but also political implications, affecting relations between states and confessional organizations.
The position of the Ecumenical Patriarchate emphasizing its independence and readiness to continue its ministry may influence the further development of Orthodoxy in Ukraine and on an international level.