Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha thanked Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for his steadfast position and condemnation of the war that the Russian Federation is waging against Ukraine.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote about this on Facebook, as reported by Ukrinform.
He stated, “Today, I have the special honor of congratulating His All-Holiness, Archbishop of Constantinople—New Rome, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on his birthday.”
Sybiha stated, “This is not just a formal greeting. During our personal meetings and open conversations, I have always felt your deep spiritual wisdom, inner strength, and genuine, warm paternal love for Ukraine and our people. In these difficult times for the world, your words carry particular weight; they are words of truth and conscience. Your voice is the voice of the Church, standing alongside the suffering and the unjustly wronged.”
He expressed gratitude, saying, "Ukrainians are profoundly thankful for your firm and consistent stance against the brutal war waged against our state. We appreciate your prayers for our soldiers, the kidnapped Ukrainian children, the prisoners, and the missing persons, as well as for all illegally detained civilians. For many Ukrainian families, your spiritual support has been a source of comfort and an unending source of hope.”
Sybiha further emphasized, “I deeply value your role in strengthening Ukraine's spiritual independence and supporting our people's desire to live in freedom and dignity. Your example of service exemplifies the courage of a shepherd who is not afraid to call evil by its name and stand on the side of truth.”
He concluded by wishing the Ecumenical Patriarch good health, strength, and inspiration for his future ministry, adding, “May the coming years be filled with peace, support from people, and good deeds.”