08.01.2026 20:41
Russian President Vladimir Putin's characterization of the war in Ukraine as a 'sacred duty' and his description of Russian soldiers as 'warriors acting on God's command' has drawn criticism from church leaders. Clergymen noted that Putin's statements carry a messianic tone and likened him to the 'Antichrist.'
Church leaders harshly targeted Russian President Vladimir Putin for his religious rhetoric related to the Ukraine war. After Putin referred to the war as a "sacred duty" and described Russian soldiers as "warriors acting on God's command," some clergymen likened the Russian leader's statements to messianic language, comparing him to the "Antichrist."
"WARRIORS ACTING ON GOD'S COMMAND" COMPARISON
In a speech he made on Wednesday due to Orthodox Christmas, Putin described Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine as "warriors acting on God's command." These words from the Russian leader were interpreted as an attempt to legitimize the war with religious messages.
"EVOKING THE ANTICHRIST"
Ukrainian Orthodox Church Priest Father Myroslav Pushkaruk, who also reacted to Putin positioning himself as a savior, stated that "These statements evoke the Antichrist more than a savior."
Church representatives emphasized that using religious beliefs as a justification for war is unacceptable, arguing that Putin's statements contain serious deviations both religiously and morally.