The Conference of European Churches has issued the following statement, signed by its president H.E. Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, condemning Russia’s attack on the Okhmatdyt children's hospital in Kyiv.

The Conference of European Churches (CEC), an ecumenical organisation representing 114 churches across Europe, unequivocally condemns the horrific attack on the Okhmatdyt children's hospital in Kyiv by Russian forces. This egregious act, targeting the most vulnerable members of society, constitutes a war crime and a grave violation of international law and humanitarian principles. The attack is a stark reminder of the horrors of this war and the suffering of Ukrainians.

As a church fellowship, we denounce all forms of violence and aggression. Christ's teachings call us to love our neighbours, protect the innocent, and seek peace. The brutal assault on a children's hospital starkly contrasts with these core values. As part of CEC's initiative, Pathways to Peace, we emphasize the urgent need for a ceasefire in the face of such atrocities. The path to lasting and just peace requires an end to the violent aggression with the retreat of the invading army and the respect of international law and human rights. This is the way towards sustainable peace.

We call upon politicians and church leaders to hold the Russian Federation accountable for its actions. The responsibility lies not only with political leaders but also with religious communities, who must speak out against injustice and work towards healing and support for those affected. The Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (UCCRO) rightly holds the Russian Orthodox Church accountable since it strongly supports the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine, incites interethnic and inter-confessional hostility, and preaches an ungodly Russian World ideology.

We encourage all European governments to provide necessary aid and support to Ukraine, ensuring that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need and that enduring peace is established.

In these trying times, we stand with our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, praying for an end to violence and the dawn of peace. May God's grace and compassion guide us all in our efforts to support and uplift those suffering in this conflict. (Quelle: www.ceceurope.org, 12. Juli 2024)