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Archbishop’s meeting with Putin Draws Criticism from Ukrainian Orthodox Bishops
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A recent meeting between Archbishop Benjamin of San Francisco and the West of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska has ignited a firestorm of controversy. Ukrainian Orthodox bishops in the United states have strongly condemned the meeting, labeling it a “betrayal of Christian witness” given the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The exchange, which included warm greetings and the gifting of holy icons, has raised questions about the implications of such interactions during a period of intense geopolitical conflict.
Background of the Meeting
The meeting took place in July 2024 at St.Michael’s Cathedral in Sitka, Alaska, during Putin’s visit to the United States. Archbishop Benjamin greeted Putin, and the two exchanged gifts, specifically, icons representing critically important religious symbolism. NBC News reported on the encounter, highlighting the unusual nature of a high-level meeting between a religious leader and the Russian President amidst the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainian Orthodox Response
The response from Ukrainian Orthodox bishops in the U.S. was swift and critical. In a joint statement released on july 18, 2024, they expressed deep disappointment and concern over Archbishop Benjamin’s decision to meet with Putin. They argued that such a meeting lends legitimacy to a leader accused of orchestrating a brutal and unprovoked war against ukraine, and undermines the suffering of the Ukrainian people. OCA News published the statement from the Ukrainian Orthodox bishops, detailing their objections.
Key Arguments in the Denunciation
- Moral Implications: The bishops argued that meeting with Putin, while Ukrainians are facing daily violence and displacement, sends a message of indifference to their plight.
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