The head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, Metropolitan Epifaniy, spoke of unity in his address in the face of the Russian military buildup near the border with Ukraine.
“We, the Ukrainian people, do not want anything belonging to others, but only protect what’s ours: our fathers’ land, our home, family, and neighbors. Therefore, the truth is on our side. And wherever truth is, there is God’s help and victory,” the Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ukraine wrote in the address.
The bishop added that the enemy “wants to intimidate us, pit us against each other, force Ukrainians to destroy their homes with their own hands, as has happened many times in our past.”
“Realizing this, we must maintain common sense, not succumb to provocations, and leave any internal minor disputes aside in the face of external threats,” Epifaniy stressed. “In unity lies our strength!”
“The aggressor attacks when it hopes to achieve its goal. Our common task is to show the Russian leader that it’s impossible to tackle Ukraine as we will fight and defend ourselves and our Homeland, to ultimate victory!” Metropolitan Epifaniy concluded.
