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Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has forcefully rejected Russian propaganda campaigns targeting him and the Ecumenical Patriarchate, describing them as “Stalinist propaganda narratives” and “subversive actions” in a recent interview with Greek newspaper Ta Nea Savvatokyriako.
“Intimidated? No, no!” the Patriarch declared emphatically. “Russian propaganda does not intimidate me. I fear neither the false and fabricated information they disseminate, nor the dirty attacks orchestrated by various agencies, nor the slanders directed against our Patriarchate and my person, nor the Russian internet trolls, nor their mouthpiece websites.”
Instead, Bartholomew turned the tables, suggesting that it is the perpetrators who should fear divine judgment. “It is they who should fear the Day of Judgment, if indeed they believe,” he stated. “Among many other things, they will be held to account for the war in Ukraine, for having described it as ‘holy,’ and for their attempts to fracture the unity of Orthodoxy.”
The Patriarch accused Moscow of attempting to create “a Russian-controlled hybrid, a construct bearing no genuine relation to Orthodoxy.” He noted the apparent projection in their accusations, saying, “They accuse Constantinople of precisely what they themselves are doing, judging others by their own actions.”
Bartholomew referenced a recent statement by Russian intelligence services that he believes exposed “who truly holds the upper hand in ecclesiastical affairs in Russia,” suggesting state control over religious matters.
Addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Ecumenical Patriarch reaffirmed his solidarity with the Ukrainian people, comparing their resistance to “another David facing Goliath.” He condemned the Russian World ideology and the characterization of the invasion as a “holy war,” calling such framing “unholy and heretical.”
“This war is not holy; it is expansionist,” Bartholomew emphasized. “It is utterly demonic, the product of vain individuals addicted to the opium of power.” He advocated for peace based on respect for Ukraine’s national independence and a comprehensive reconstruction plan.
The tensions between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Russian Orthodox Church have intensified since 2018, when Constantinople granted autocephaly (independence) to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. The Moscow Patriarchate, which had claimed jurisdiction over Ukraine’s Orthodox faithful, severed communion with Constantinople in response, creating one of the most significant schisms in modern Orthodox history.
Bartholomew also expressed concern for Christian communities in the Middle East, particularly those under the ancient Patriarchates of Antioch and Jerusalem. He urged local governments and international stakeholders to ensure the protection of Christian communities and promote security and sustainable development in the region.
On a more hopeful note, the Patriarch shared cautious optimism about the potential reopening of the Halki Theological School, which Turkish authorities closed in 1971. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has reportedly initiated dialogue on this matter with the Patriarchate.
“I believe that substantial progress has been achieved, although certain issues still remain to be settled,” Bartholomew said. He noted that extensive renovations of the historic building are underway, supported by Athanasios Martinos, an Ecumenical Grand Benefactor.
The works are expected to be completed by summer, and Bartholomew expressed hope that the necessary authorization will be granted to reopen the institution after 55 years of closure. “At that time, we also intend to invite His Excellency the President to jointly inaugurate the reopening of this historic educational institution of our Patriarchate,” he concluded.
The potential reopening of Halki Seminary would represent a significant improvement in relations between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Turkey, addressing a longstanding request from Orthodox Christians worldwide.
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9 Comments
It’s admirable that the Ecumenical Patriarch is standing up to Russian propaganda and disinformation efforts. His refusal to be intimidated, and his willingness to call out Moscow’s ‘subversive actions,’ demonstrates principled leadership in the face of a powerful adversary.
Interesting to see the Ecumenical Patriarch stand up to Russian propaganda. It takes courage to speak out against disinformation campaigns, especially from a powerful country like Russia. I’m curious to learn more about the specific tactics they’ve used to target the Patriarch and the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Yes, the Patriarch’s defiant stance is admirable. Calling out the Kremlin’s attempts to ‘fracture the unity of Orthodoxy’ is an important message, given Russia’s efforts to assert dominance in the region.
The Patriarch’s comments provide a fascinating glimpse into the tensions between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Russia. His accusations of Moscow trying to create a ‘Russian-controlled hybrid’ in Orthodoxy are quite serious. This conflict seems to have deep historical and theological roots.
Yes, the Patriarch’s strong language suggests this is an ongoing battle for the soul of Orthodoxy. It will be important to follow how this plays out, both in terms of the theological debates and the geopolitical implications.
The Patriarch’s defiant tone is commendable. Calling out ‘Stalinist propaganda narratives’ and ‘subversive actions’ takes real courage. It will be interesting to see how Russia responds to these strong words from the Ecumenical Patriarch.
This clash between the Ecumenical Patriarch and Russian propaganda is an important story to follow. The Patriarch’s refusal to be intimidated and his condemnation of Russia’s actions are significant. I hope this helps shed light on Moscow’s efforts to exert control over the Orthodox world.
This is a concerning development regarding the tensions between Russia and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The Patriarch’s accusations of Moscow trying to create a ‘Russian-controlled hybrid’ in Orthodoxy are quite serious. I wonder what the broader implications could be for the Orthodox Church.
Agreed, the Patriarch’s comments highlight the geopolitical stakes involved here. Russia’s attempts to assert its influence over the Orthodox world are troubling, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine.