Open letter from the Christian Churches in Belgium to the people of Ukraine

Brussels – June 24th, 2026

As leaders and representatives of the Christian Churches in Belgium, united in faith and our shared humanity, we address this open letter to our brothers and sisters in Ukraine with hearts full of profound sorrow, yet burning with unyielding solidarity.

First and foremost, our thoughts, our prayers, and our deepest respect go out to the Ukrainian people. For more than four years, you have shown the world a level of courage, resilience, and dignity that humbles us all. You are enduring suffering that no nation should ever have to face, yet your spirit remains unbroken. We want to state clearly and unequivocally: the aggressor will not break the Ukrainians. Your strength is a testament to your deep roots, your faith, and your love of freedom. We stand firmly by your side.

It is with immense grief that we recently learned of the massive Russian attack that hit the heart of your spiritual heritage—the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra. Seeing this UNESCO World Heritage site and supreme sanctuary of Eastern Christianity engulfed in flames, with the Stefanivsky Chapel of the Dormition Cathedral severely damaged, fills us with profound indignation.

The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is not merely a collection of buildings. It is the spiritual and cultural cradle of the ancient Rus’ and a foundational pillar of Eastern European history. To strike this sacred site is to cross a line that transcends the military sphere. It is a direct assault on a major historical and spiritual symbol shared by the global Christian community.

We pray tirelessly for the day when the weapons fall silent and a just and lasting peace finally prevails—a peace rooted in truth, justice, and the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

To the people of Ukraine: your light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. You are not alone. The Christian communities of Belgium pray for you, stand with you, and will continue to support you until justice and peace win the day.

In steadfast solidarity and blessing,

The Council of Christian Churches in Belgium