Zelensky Meets with Patr. Bartholomew During Fifth Visit to Phanar

ISTANBUL — As reported by UOJ-Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul on October 31, 2026, meeting with Patr. Bartholomew for approximately one hour at the patriarchal residence in the Phanar district.

The visit marked Zelensky's fifth trip to the Phanar since becoming president. According to the Ecumenical Patriarchate's press service, discussions focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine, the suffering of the Ukrainian population, and efforts to achieve peace. Patr. Bartholomew reaffirmed the patriarchate's support for Ukraine and said the Church continues to pray for peace and justice.

The Patriarch also raised the issue of thousands of Ukrainian children who have been abducted, expressing hope that they would return to their homeland and reunite with their families. He voiced support for initiatives aimed at resolving international conflicts peacefully.

Zelensky thanked Patr. Bartholomew and the Ecumenical Patriarchate for their continued support and prayers. He also congratulated the Patriarch on the 35th anniversary of his election to the Ecumenical Throne.

Metr. Emmanuel of Chalcedon and Metr. Gregory of Ankara attended the meeting, along with Metr. Epiphanius of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Zelensky was accompanied by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha. Following the discussion, Patr. Bartholomew blessed the remaining members of the Ukrainian delegation in the Throne Hall before personally accompanying the president to the patriarchate's gates.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Theophilos III planned meetings with Putin and Zelensky to pursue peace in Ukraine.