Pat. Kirill Receives Presidential Award for 'Contributing to the Unity of the Russian Nation'

President Vladimir Putin and Pat. Kirill. Photo: Izvestia

MOSCOW — On Nov. 4, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin presented Pat. Kirill of Moscow with the Presidential Award for Strengthening the Unity of the Russian Nation during an official ceremony at the Kremlin marking the Day of National Unity.

As reported by Izvestia and the Orthodox Times, the award, part of the 2023–2025 honors program, recognized Pat. Kirill’s “contribution to the unity of the Russian nation.” In his address, President Putin recalled the origins of the holiday, commemorating the people’s uprising more than four centuries ago that safeguarded Russia’s independence. “It was their unity, sense of responsibility, and devotion to duty that preserved the state and defended the sacred right to our moral roots,” he said.

Putin also argued that, just like in 1612, Russia is defending its sovereignty today, "continuing these traditions... through our peaceful, creative and combat exploits."

Pat. Kirill, who attended the ceremony in person, expressed gratitude to the president for his “constant attention to the ministry of the Russian Orthodox Church and to the needs and hopes of millions of believers.” He highlighted the Church’s cooperation with the state in fostering “the spiritual and moral education of youth, the strengthening of traditional family values, and the promotion of peace and social harmony.”

Alluding to what he called “a decisive moment in history,” the Patriarch spoke of a time “when our people were able to defend the freedom and sovereignty of the country,” a veiled reference to Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

In closing remarks, Putin emphasized that Russia “has always drawn its strength from traditions of civic solidarity,” adding that preserving national unity remains “a reliable guarantee for the stable development of the country, the strengthening of its security, and the successful response to the great national challenges ahead.”

Previously, UOJ reported that Pat. Kirill spoke on the dangers of alcoholism.

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