Ukraine: Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, the leader of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, marked 1,000 days since the onset of Russia's full-scale war in Ukraine with a heartfelt plea: “Do not abandon us.” Speaking with Vatican Media, he described the dual emotions gripping Ukrainians—profound pain from relentless attacks, yet unyielding hope fueled by resilience and solidarity.

Reflecting on the war’s toll, Archbishop Shevchuk condemned the conflict as "senseless and sacrilegious" and highlighted the courage of ordinary Ukrainians—workers repairing infrastructure, doctors saving lives under fire, and citizens rediscovering their faith amidst chaos. "Without hope," he remarked, "it is impossible to live in Ukraine today."

He shared how the Church has become a beacon in this crisis, offering not only spiritual guidance but also the "sacrament of presence." “Sometimes words fail,” he said, emphasizing the importance of standing in silent solidarity with those suffering.

Archbishop Shevchuk also spoke of the transformative power of the Gospel, recounting how its message has revived spirits and renewed hope even in the darkest moments. “The Word of God is life—it’s not just a metaphor,” he affirmed.

Addressing the pursuit of peace, the Archbishop emphasized that Ukraine's resilience itself is a source of hope, defying attempts to crush its spirit. This resilience, he argued, challenges global politics and diplomacy while offering lessons on humanity's capacity to resist injustice.

He concluded with a powerful insight: Ukraine's struggle transcends its borders, revealing universal truths about hope, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. "Ukraine is not a problem," he declared, "but part of the solution to many of today’s injustices."