Archbishop of Canterbury visits Ukraine ahead of second anniversary of Russian invasion

Justin Welby is in Ukraine for the second time since Russia invaded on 24 February 2022. (Photo: Lambeth Palace)

The Archbishop of Canterbury is in Ukraine to meet and pray with Christians in the country ahead of the second anniversary of the Russian invasion. 

It is his second visit to the country since the oubtreak of the war, his last being in December 2022. 

"It is now almost two full years since that dreadful day of the full-scale Russian invasion – an act of great evil – and we know that that the need for support is going to be very long term," he said. 

"It was profoundly moving and humbling to meet people here in late 2022; to see first-hand the heroism of people who have been through hell.

"It has stayed with me and I felt a deep call to return."

During his visit, the Archbishop will spend time with the Anglican Christ Church, Kyiv, and see first-hand the personal impact of the war. 

In an apparent reference to the war between Israel and Gaza, the Archbishop said he wanted Ukrainians to know that they are not forgotten. 

"I am here to stand with our sisters and brothers in Christ in Ukraine," he said. 

"I want to pray with and for them, learn from them and to say loud and clear that, amid all that is going on in other places, the world will not forget Ukraine."

News
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.

Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year

Isaiah 41:10 had the highest international engagement on YouVersion during 2025, while in the UK it was Jeremiah 29:11 that topped the list.