Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Press Release No: 01/25
24 February 2025
Brussels

H.E. Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, President of the Conference of European Churches (CEC), has issued a statement marking the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. CEC stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and urges global action for lasting peace.

“In the face of immense suffering and injustice, the Ukrainian people continue to show unwavering resilience in their fight for freedom and independence,” said Archbishop Nikitas. “Now more than ever, our solidarity must be matched by concrete action for a just and lasting peace.”

The statement noted the media reports, according to which, the war has claimed more than 150,000 lives, left 60,000 missing, and forcibly displaced nearly 19,500 Ukrainian children. The destruction has also caused an estimated €160 billion in infrastructure damage and led to widespread human suffering.

CEC also raised concerns over hybrid warfare tactics, including disinformation campaigns aimed at distorting facts and undermining Ukraine’s commitment to international law, democracy, and pluralism. “We call on international leaders and organisations to challenge false narratives and uphold the truth,” Archbishop Nikitas urged.

In response to these challenges, CEC continues its Pathways to Peace initiative, fostering dialogue among churches and amplifying Ukrainian voices. “This is a time for churches, governments, and communities across Europe to unite in advocating for Ukraine’s right to peace and sovereignty,” the CEC President added.

The statement reiterated deep concern over the complicity of the Russian Orthodox Church in legitimising the invasion, and criticised recent documents from the XXV World Russian People’s Council that justified Russian aggression. CEC affirmed its call on Patriarch Kirill to speak out against the war.

As Ukraine’s defence capabilities face growing challenges, CEC urges the European Union, heads of state, and international organisations to strengthen their commitment to peace through diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and unwavering solidarity.

“In these difficult times, we remain committed to the path of justice and reconciliation,” Archbishop Nikitas concluded. “Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace,” Romans 14:19.

Read full text of the statement

Learn more about Pathways to Peace

For further information or an interview, please contact:

Naveen Qayyum
Communication Officer
Conference of European Churches
Rue Joseph II, 174 B-1000 Brussels
Tel. +32 486 75 82 36
E-mail: naveen@cec-kek.be
Website: www.ceceurope.org
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