RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin marked Orthodox Easter Sunday by applauding the “strengthening” role of the church for society and youth, while the country’s top bishop supported the offensive in Ukraine.
“I would like to express my profound gratitude for your tireless and selfless work in preserving the enduring historical, spiritual, moral and family values, by educating and enlightening youth,” Putin said after taking part in the liturgy at the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Moscow.