Ukrainian Church Council in the United States Urges President Trump to Increase Pressure on Russia to Stop Its Aggression and Achieve a Just Peace
The Council of Ukrainian Christian Churches of Washington State has appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump, urging increased international pressure on Russia and demanding its unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine. Church leaders emphasized that a just peace is only possible if Moscow is compelled to halt its aggression and take responsibility for its war crimes.
Source: Council of Ukrainian Christian Churches of Washington State
U.S.-Based Ukrainian Churches Join the Public Debate on Peace Negotiations
The Council of Ukrainian Christian Churches of Washington State has joined the wider public conversation surrounding proposed peace negotiations aimed at ending Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In a letter addressed to President Donald Trump and senior members of the U.S. administration, the leaders of Ukrainian congregations outlined the position of the Ukrainian diaspora and the principles they believe are necessary for a durable and just peace.
The letter stresses that the root cause of the war lies in the decisions of the Russian leadership, which launched a war of conquest, resulting in hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian victims. Church leaders reminded the administration that Russian forces have destroyed over 700 churches and religious buildings, and that the war continues to be accompanied by systematic crimes against civilians.
Russian Actions Show Signs of Genocidal Policy, Church Leaders Say
The signatories argue that Russia’s treatment of Ukrainians bears the clear marks of genocidal intent, echoing the historic tragedy of the 1932–1933 Holodomor. For this reason, they insist that the international community must increase pressure on the Kremlin, compelling it to end its aggression and face accountability.
Support for U.S. Sanctions and Call for Greater Pressure
The Council highlighted the importance of existing U.S. sanctions — including restrictions on Lukoil, Rosneft, and other Russian energy companies — which significantly limit the Kremlin’s ability to continue financing the war. The letter urges the United States and its allies to strengthen both economic and political pressure.
Ukrainian Christian communities in Washington also stressed the need for clear security guarantees for Ukraine and ongoing military support capable of ensuring long-term stability and preventing future Russian invasions.
Daily Attacks Show Moscow Has No Intention of Ceasing Fire
The letter notes that Russia’s daily missile and drone attacks on civilian areas demonstrate its unwillingness to halt hostilities. At the same time, millions of Ukrainians look to their strongest ally — the United States — for decisive leadership.
Church leaders expressed gratitude to President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for their support of Ukraine, particularly for efforts to help return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.
The letter was signed by representatives of nearly twenty Ukrainian churches of various denominations serving in Washington State.
