Zelensky meets with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

The head of state reported this on his Telegram channel, according to Ukrinform.

"A meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. We discussed the implementation of the Peace Formula and the return of children deported by the occupiers and whom we should return home to their relatives in Ukraine. Thank you for your unwavering support and prayers for peace! For condemning aggression and crimes, comprehensive assistance to Ukrainian men and women who suffered due to the war!" Zelensky said.

According to the presidential press service, the head of state informed the Ecumenical Patriarch about the situation at the front and recent crimes committed by the aggressor against civilians in Ukraine.

Zelensky thanked His Holiness for his steadfast support for Ukraine, prayers for peace, condemnation of aggression and crimes, and comprehensive assistance to Ukrainians who suffered due to the war.

"Today is an important day – our struggle has been going on for 500 days – since the full-scale invasion. We have the support of His All Holiness, prayers for our soldiers, for the nation, for our people, for life in Ukraine," Zelensky said.

Video: Office of the President of Ukraine

For his part, His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew noted the importance of achieving peace in Ukraine.

"The Ecumenical Patriarchate as the Mother Church of all Orthodox in Ukraine is always on their side," the Ecumenical Patriarch said.

"I want to wish for the return of all the POWs and all the children who are now far from their homes," Patriarch Bartholomew added.

Zelensky arrived in Turkey late on July 7 and held talks with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Prior to that, Zelensky visited Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia.