Zelensky meets Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in Istanbul, discusses Oleshky and peace process

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, a leading figure of the Orthodox Church, in Istanbul on 31 October. The conversation covered contacts with the American side within the peace process, as well as a humanitarian operation in Oleshky, a city currently occupied by Russia. The president reported on the meeting on social media.

Zelensky congratulated the patriarch on the 35th anniversary of his enthronement, which falls on 2 November.

What the president told the patriarch

Zelensky said he described the work he and his partners are doing to achieve peace, including contacts with the American side. He also briefed the patriarch on the situation in Ukraine and on constant Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and on everything that ensures normal life for people.

The humanitarian operation in Oleshky, from which people were rescued, was also discussed. The president called this a very important result and said he hopes the world will press Russia so that such de-escalation steps are expanded.

Thanks for support

Zelensky thanked the patriarch for his consistent public position, his support for Ukraine and his continued prayers for peace in the country.