The Head of the UGCC and the Prime Minister of Ukraine Meet in Kyiv to Discuss the Challenges of War and the Path to Peace
On May 24, 2025, a cordial and fruitful meeting was held at the Patriarchal Center of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in Kyiv between His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, and Denys Shmyhal, Prime Minister of Ukraine. The Prime Minister’s visit provided a welcome opportunity to personally congratulate the Primate of the UGCC on his 55th birthday, which he had celebrated on May 5 during a visit to Rome.
At the outset of the meeting, the Prime Minister presented the Head of the UGCC with a certificate of appreciation. “For devoted service to the people, spiritual leadership, patriotic education of youth, strengthening the indomitable spirit, faith, unity, and hope of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression in the struggle for our freedom and independence,” the certificate reads.
A constructive dialogue ensued, during which the parties exchanged views on the current challenges facing Ukraine. They discussed the steps that need to be taken to achieve a lasting and just peace.
In this context, His Beatitude Sviatoslav spoke about his visit to the Vatican and private audience with Pope Leo XIV. The parties noted the importance of Pope Leo XIV starting his ministry with a call for peace. They also mentioned his offer of Vatican mediation in peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
“It is regrettable that the Russian side has demonstratively rejected this proposal. And not only this initiative, but all calls to take serious steps to stop the war,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
They also discussed the humanitarian situation in Ukraine and the social ministry of the Churches. The Head of the UGCC also spoke about the 100th session of the Synod of Bishops of the UGCC, held on May 21–22. The main theme of the Synod was the social ministry of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in the context of war. The head of government noted the importance of partnership between the Church and the state in the humanitarian sphere.
The Prime Minister thanked the Head of the UGCC for his role in fostering Church-state partnership, as well as for his active work in the international arena. He underscored the significance of such efforts on the path to ending the war and achieving a just and lasting peace.
The UGCC Department for Information
Photo: Press Service of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine
