Catholic bishops in Europe have issued a powerful assertion reaffirming their unwavering help for Ukraine and its folks because the Russian-Ukraine struggle enters a brand new section of “geopolitical complexity and uncertainty”.
The Presidency of the Fee of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) expressed its deep solidarity with Ukrainians affected by “Russia’s unjustifiable full-scale invasion”, now in its third yr.
COMECE prolonged prayers to “all those that have misplaced their lives, those that have been wounded, those that have needed to flee their houses in concern, those that proceed to defend their homeland”.
Whereas commending the EU and its Member States for his or her sustained humanitarian, political, financial, and army help, the bishops additionally acknowledged the contributions of civil society, faith-based organisations, and residents who’ve provided support and refuge to these affected by the battle.
“Ukraine’s battle for peace and the defence of its territorial integrity just isn’t solely a combat for its personal future. Its final result may also be decisive for the destiny of all the European continent and a free and democratic world,” the bishops emphasised.
COMECE condemned Russia’s invasion as “a blatant violation of worldwide legislation”, stressing that makes an attempt to vary nationwide borders via power and the “atrocities” dedicated towards civilians should be met with “justice and accountability.”
Whereas advocating for a negotiated peace, the bishops underscored that any “credible and honest” diplomatic efforts should be based on “sturdy transatlantic and world solidarity” and be certain that Ukraine, as “the sufferer of aggression”, performs a central position in any dialogue.
The assertion pressured {that a} “sustainable and simply” peace accord should “absolutely respect worldwide legislation” and embody “efficient safety ensures” to impede future battle.
It additionally referred to as for the peace settlement to allow Ukrainian households “reunite once more and stay life in dignity, safety, and freedom of their sovereign and impartial homeland.”
The bishops asserted that guaranteeing long-term reconciliation additionally requires defending and upholding “the rights of all communities, together with the Russian-speaking minority”.
Recognising the large destruction attributable to the struggle, COMECE urged the worldwide neighborhood to help Ukraine’s reconstruction, stating, “Russia, because the aggressor, should adequately take part on this effort.”
In response to Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership, the bishops inspired the EU to proceed its enlargement course of “in a well timed and truthful method”, not just for Ukraine however for different candidate nations as effectively.
As the worldwide safety panorama shifts, they expressed hope that the EU would stay “a promise of peace and an anchor of stability” within the area and past.
As Christians enter the Lenten season, COMECE referred to as on believers “to entrust Ukraine and Europe to our Lord Jesus Christ”.
