Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem has signalled his willingness to assist efforts to end the war in Ukraine following a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin.
The meeting, held on Thursday, November 5, saw Putin present the Jerusalem Patriarch with Russia’s Order of Friendship, recognising what the Kremlin described as his contribution to strengthening relations, cooperation and spiritual ties with Russia.
During their discussions, Theophilos said the Patriarchate of Jerusalem was prepared to support initiatives aimed at bringing an end to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
“We are ready to offer our assistance and fully encourage every effort aimed at facilitating and achieving peace between brothers,” the Patriarch said.
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His comments follow an earlier meeting with US President Donald Trump, after which Theophilos publicly discussed his intention to explore a possible mediating role in the conflict.
Patriarch expresses admiration for Putin
Theophilos also used the Kremlin meeting to express his personal appreciation for the Russian President, saying he prayed for him daily.
“I personally admire you and pray every day for your health, that the Lord may enlighten and inspire you in addressing all the challenges that lie ahead,” he told Putin.
He described the Russian President as a defender of the Orthodox faith and thanked him for what he characterised as Russia’s support for the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
The exchange highlights the close relationship between Moscow and the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, particularly through their longstanding religious and institutional ties.
Ukraine mediation and divisions within Orthodoxy
The proposed involvement of Theophilos in efforts to mediate the war comes amid continuing divisions within the Eastern Orthodox Church over Ukraine.
The Patriarch of Jerusalem previously indicated that he had received support from the US and Greek governments, as well as Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, for efforts to explore a possible diplomatic contribution.
He also referred to plans for discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Putin.
However, the question of who should lead discussions involving the Orthodox Churches remains significant.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has invited the heads of the four ancient Orthodox Patriarchates of Constantinople, Alexandria, Jerusalem and Antioch to meet at the Phanar in Istanbul on November 30.
The gathering comes as Orthodox leaders continue to navigate disagreements over Ukraine and the wider relationship between the churches.
Theophilos previously convened an informal gathering of Orthodox leaders in Amman, Jordan, to discuss the Ukrainian issue. That initiative attracted limited participation.
Putin highlights Russia’s support for Christians in the Holy Land
During Thursday’s meeting, Putin emphasised Russia’s historic relationship with the Jerusalem Patriarchate and the Russian Orthodox Church.
He said Moscow placed particular importance on the position of Christian communities in the Middle East and expressed Russia’s willingness to contribute to protecting the region’s Christian heritage.
Putin also referred to his discussions with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, saying the Russian Orthodox leader regularly raises issues concerning Jerusalem.
Theophilos, meanwhile, highlighted the Patriarchate’s responsibility to safeguard Christian holy sites and preserve Jerusalem’s longstanding multi-religious character.
He described Jerusalem as a city where different religious communities should be able to coexist peacefully.
The Patriarch also expressed concern about the declining Christian population across the Middle East, pointing to political instability as a major challenge for Christian communities.
He thanked Putin for Russia’s continued support for the protection of Christian holy sites and stability in Jerusalem and the wider region.
The meeting places the Jerusalem Patriarchate’s potential diplomatic involvement in Ukraine alongside its longstanding religious relationships with both Moscow and other centres of Orthodox Christianity.
Source: Orthodox Times
