MWE Correspondent
Russia plans to raise the issue of protecting Orthodox Christians in Ukraine during discussions with US negotiators, according to a Russian Foreign Ministry representative.
Mikhail Melekh, the ministry’s special representative, said Moscow and Washington share similar views on the importance of preserving traditional values and protecting Christians.
“We and the US share fairly similar views on the issue of preserving traditional values and protecting Christians,” Melekh said.
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The Russian official indicated that the situation facing Orthodox believers in Ukraine would be among the issues Moscow seeks to discuss with US representatives as diplomatic contacts continue.
Russia has repeatedly accused Ukrainian authorities of restricting the rights of Orthodox Christians and interfering in religious institutions. Kyiv, however, has defended its policies as measures aimed at addressing national security concerns and reducing the influence of religious structures linked to Moscow.
The issue of religion has become increasingly sensitive during the Russia-Ukraine war, with both sides presenting competing narratives over religious freedom, national identity and the role of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Moscow’s decision to raise the matter with US negotiators adds another dimension to ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict. It also reflects Russia’s broader emphasis on what it describes as the protection of traditional values and Christian communities.
The discussions come as Washington continues diplomatic engagement over possible pathways toward ending the war, while major disagreements remain between Moscow and Kyiv over territory, security guarantees and the conditions for a potential peace agreement.
