Zelensky at the Phanar: The Patriarch’s support and Ukraine’s gratitude

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew reaffirmed his unwavering support for the Ukrainian people during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

This marked Zelensky’s fifth visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate since taking office, following his previous visit in April.

The Ecumenical Patriarch warmly welcomed the Ukrainian President before holding a private meeting at the Patriarchal Office that lasted approximately one hour.

During their discussions, Patriarch Bartholomew reiterated the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s solidarity with the Ukrainian people, emphasizing that the Mother Church continues to pray for peace and justice in Ukraine.

He also expressed support for initiatives aimed at peacefully resolving the conflict and highlighted the urgent need to secure the return of thousands of Ukrainian children who have been abducted, allowing them to reunite with their families.

For his part, President Zelensky expressed gratitude for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s continued support.

In a social media post following the meeting, Zelensky said he had briefed Patriarch Bartholomew on ongoing…