The Ukrainian Archbishop of Philadelphia has invited former President Donald Trump to visit Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of such a trip for shaping future policies.
Archbishop Borys Gudziak, leader of the Ukrainian Catholic Diocese of Philadelphia, discussed his outreach during an interview. He shared that he had a brief conversation with Trump at a dinner on October 17, followed by a letter urging him to witness Ukraine's situation firsthand after the election results were announced.
The archbishop believes that a visit to Ukraine as part of a humanitarian delegation involving religious leaders, political figures, and experts would help Trump grasp the reality of the ongoing crisis. He noted that such visits have provided other leaders with a profound understanding of Ukraine’s challenges, particularly amid the devastating impacts of war.
Ukraine’s Thousand Days of War February 24, 2022, marked the beginning of Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine, a conflict that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions. This past November 19 marked a somber milestone—1,000 days since the war began.
The war has left Ukraine in turmoil despite significant military and financial aid from Western nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Archbishop Gudziak reflected on the immense pain the conflict has inflicted on Ukrainian citizens, stating, “It is a time of mourning.”
Despite the hardships, he expressed gratitude for Ukraine's resilience. “Most thought Ukraine would collapse within days or weeks, but three years later, the people continue to defend their dignity, freedom, and democracy,” he said.
The Human Cost The toll of the invasion is staggering. Over 14 million people have been displaced, with thousands of schools and hospitals destroyed. The archbishop highlighted the immense sacrifices made, adding that the Ukrainian people remain united in their determination to protect their nation’s sovereignty.
In a heartfelt message, Pope Francis expressed solidarity with the people of Ukraine, acknowledging the hardships they have endured during the prolonged conflict.
As Ukraine continues its struggle, the archbishop’s call for global leaders to engage with the country underscores the need for deeper international understanding and collaboration in pursuit of peace.
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