The Spiritual War: How Russia Views the Conflict in Ukraine

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is not just a geopolitical battle but also a deeply spiritual one, according to leaders of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU). As President Donald Trump’s administration works toward a diplomatic resolution to the war, the OCU has warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin views the conflict as a "holy war" against the West. This perspective sheds light on the intricate religious and ideological motivations driving Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

At the heart of this spiritual conflict is the belief that Russia is fighting to liberate Ukraine from what it perceives as the "Godless West." Yevstratiy, the deputy head of the OCU’s external church relations, explains that from a religious standpoint, Russia sees itself as bringing "light and truth" to Ukraine. This narrative frames the war not just as a territorial dispute but as a divine mission to restore Christian civilization. The Russian Orthodox Church, led by Moscow Patriarch Kirill, has been accused of acting as an extension of the Kremlin, using religious rhetoric to justify the invasion.

The spiritual dimensions of the conflict became even more apparent when Patriarch Kirill sermonized to Russian soldiers at the start of the war. He told them that if they died in battle, their sins would be forgiven, and they would immediately enter paradise. This message, which some have likened to "Political Jihad," highlights the blurred lines between religion and politics in Russia’s justification for the war. The OCU and other observers argue that this is a distortion of the Gospel and a manipulation of faith for political gain.

The Historical Roots of the Conflict

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has deep historical and spiritual roots that predate the current war. The Orthodox Church of Ukraine gained independence from the Russian Orthodox Church in 2019, a move that was deeply contentious. The ecumenical patriarch in Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey) granted the OCU autocephaly, or self-governance, in a decision that was met with fierce opposition from Moscow. Patriarch Kirill and President Putin refused to recognize the authority of Patriarch Bartholomew, viewing the move as a challenge to Russia’s spiritual and political influence in the region.

The split in the Orthodox Church is not just about religious governance; it is also tied to national identity and sovereignty. Ukraine’s Orthodox Church has long been under the jurisdiction of the Russian Orthodox Church, which many Ukrainians saw as a symbol of Russian dominance. The OCU’s independence was a significant step toward asserting Ukraine’s autonomy, both politically and spiritually. However, this move also deepened the rift between Ukraine and Russia, contributing to the escalation of tensions.

The Apocalyptic Vision of Vladimir Putin

Yevstratiy, the OCU leader, revealed that Putin’s ultimate goal extends beyond the reunification of the Soviet Union or the defense of Christian civilization. According to Yevstratiy, Putin is driven by a more apocalyptic vision: the establishment of Moscow as the "third and final Rome." This idea, rooted in Russian religious and nationalist ideology, posits that Moscow is the final center of true Christianity after the fall of Rome and Constantinople. In this vision, the rest of Christianity—Catholics and Protestants alike—are labeled as heretics and pagans.

This apocalyptic narrative underscores the deeply ideological nature of the conflict. Putin’s vision is not just about territorial control but about asserting Russia’s role as the defender of Orthodox Christianity and the last bastion of true faith. This ideology has been used to justify the war in Ukraine and to rally support among Russian Orthodox believers. The OCU and other critics argue that this is a dangerous manipulation of religion for political purposes.

The Global Significance of the Conflict

While the conflict between the Russian Orthodox Church and the OCU may seem like "inside baseball" to outsiders, it has profound implications for global Christianity. The Orthodox Church traces its roots to the earliest days of Christianity, with connections to the apostles who knew Jesus personally. The apostle Andrew is said to have preached in the East, leading to the establishment of the Orthodox Church in Constantinople. This historical legacy gives the conflict a weight that goes beyond modern geopolitics.

The split between the Russian Orthodox Church and the OCU highlights the ongoing struggles within Orthodoxy to balance tradition with modernity and national identity. It also underscores the global nature of religious conflicts, as the war in Ukraine has implications for Christians around the world. The OCU’s delegation to the International Religious Freedom Summit in Washington, D.C., reflects the global attention this conflict has garnered and the broader implications for religious freedom.

A Prayer for Peace: The OCU’s Message to the West

Despite the deep spiritual and ideological divides, the OCU remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Metropolitan Epiphany, the leader of the OCU, and Yevstratiy were present at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., where they heard President Trump express his desire to be a peacemaker. Yevstratiy prayed for God to bless this desire, emphasizing the importance of spiritual support in the pursuit of peace.

The OCU’s message to the West is one of unity and solidarity. They urge Christians and people of all faiths to pray for Ukraine and for the restoration of peace. The conflict in Ukraine is not just a political or military issue but a spiritual one, requiring both diplomatic efforts and divine intervention. As the war rages on, the OCU continues to advocate for religious freedom, national sovereignty, and the protection of innocent lives.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Struggle for Ukraine’s Soul

The conflict in Ukraine is a complex web of politics, history, and spirituality. At its core is a struggle for Ukraine’s identity and sovereignty, both as a nation and as a spiritual community. The OCU’s fight for independence from the Russian Orthodox Church reflects the broader desire of the Ukrainian people to chart their own course in the world. Meanwhile, Putin’s vision of Moscow as the "third and final Rome" reveals the deeply ideological nature of the conflict, with implications far beyond Ukraine’s borders.

As the international community works toward a peaceful resolution, the role of religion cannot be ignored. The OCU’s message of prayer and unity serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope and faith can be powerful forces for change. The outcome of this spiritual war will not only shape the future of Ukraine but also have far-reaching consequences for global Christianity and the ongoing struggle between light and darkness.