Interreligious Council of Russia calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine

Members of the Interreligious Council of Russia are ready to make every effort to ensure a ceasefire in the east of Ukraine, said on Thursday the head of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeev) after the Council meeting. This was reported by RIA Novosti.

The Interreligious Council adopted a statement in which it expresses a deep concern at the ongoing conflict and highlights the "common history and richness of ties "between the two nations." "We call on all those involved in the confrontation to maintain the ceasefire, to solve all the difficult issues through dialogue," says the statement.

Representatives of canonical denominations also cautioned against inhuman treatment of the prisoners, called for the release of the hostage and highlighted the importance of joint action to alleviate the suffering of victims of the conflict. The statement is also addressed to journalists.

"We ask you to withdraw from incitement of hatred, the formation of the image of an enemy in the souls of people, propaganda of nationalism. Journalists, public figures and politicians should not forget about their moral obligation to contribute to the resolution of the conflict," stressed the Council.