AUCCRO calls on Russia and Ukraine to exchange all prisoners as a step towards de-escalation
“In view of the attempts of the international community to ensure the resumption of negotiations within the Normandy format, calling on all participants in the process to show determination and make the necessary efforts to carry out the exchange of persons held in connection with the conflict as a first step in the process of implementing a comprehensive strategy for de-escalation of the existing conflict, we appeal to you to immediately take all necessary actions for the release of all detained persons for mercy and humanitarian reasons, " the AUCCRO said in its appeal to the presidents of Ukraine and Russia.
The All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations also called on Volodymyr Zelensky and Volodymyr Putin to “make all possible diplomatic efforts to prevent terrible bloodshed on our land, which will leave an indelible mark for many generations, but strive to achieve a lasting just peace between our countries.”
On behalf of Churches and religious organizations of Ukraine, the appeal was signed by the chairman of the AUCCRO, President of the Ukrainian Bible Society Hryhoriy Komandant.
Earlier, the AUCCRO appealed to the Ukrainian society and the international community with a call to pray and unite in order to be ready to give a consolidated rebuff to the Russian aggressor.
