Putin boasts about his sponsorship of projects in Athos while Ukraine's soldiers seek refuge

In a remarkable display of resilience, a group of 22 wounded Ukrainian soldiers traveled to Greece as part of a psychological support program aimed at helping them heal from the trauma of war. The journey took them from Lviv, Ukraine, over 1,000 kilometers to the mountainous Athos peninsula, a site known for its deep spiritual significance to the Orthodox Church. Once there, these soldiers, many with visible and invisible war injuries, engaged in a four-day retreat, where they visited ancient monasteries steeped in history and tradition. The monks and priests of Athos welcomed the soldiers, offering them not only spiritual guidance but also a serene environment in which to reflect on their experiences. During their visit, the soldiers were able to take part in various religious activities, including communal prayers and meditation. The tranquility of the region provided a stark contrast to the turmoil they had faced on the battlefield, allowing them to momentarily escape their painful memories and focus on healing. Father Mykhailo Pasirskyi, a Ukrainian Orthodox priest accompanying the group, expressed the urgent need for rehabilitation among these soldiers, many of whom suffer from physical ailments or mental health challenges. He stated that this trip could significantly aid their recovery, suggesting that the time spent in Athos would be more beneficial than months of treatment in hospitals back in Ukraine. This highlights the importance of psychological support for veterans in conflict-ridden areas. The historical ties between Athos and the Russian Orthodox Church complicate the situation, especially given the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia and Ukraine. While the monks on Athos maintain a semi-autonomous status and distinct traditions, the Greek government’s support for Ukraine has created disharmony with Moscow. The presence of these Ukrainian soldiers on Athos serves not only as a testament to their suffering but also as a reminder of the larger conflict, which has left deep scars on both nations involved. Through this retreat, many soldiers left Athos with a renewed sense of hope and a commitment to continue their rehabilitation journey back in Ukraine.