“God has placed you in power”, launches the Russian patriarch for Putin’s 70th birthday – Le Figaro

Against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church celebrated the 70th birthday of the Russian president. “God has placed you in power.” The Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill thus congratulated Vladimir Putin on his 70th birthday on Friday, marked by a shower of praise despite Russian international isolation and setbacks in Ukraine. In his message, Kirill praised Vladimir Putin for “the transformation of Russia’s image, the strengthening of its sovereignty and its defensive capabilities, the defense of national interests”. He also wishes him “physical and moral strength for many years” and called for prayers for the health of the Russian president. “May your strength not run out” He also wished Vladimir Putin, in power since over 22, “physical and moral strength for many years” and called for prayers for his health across Russia. “You have acquired the reputation of a national leader, loyal to his Fatherland and who sincerely loves it and gives it all his strength,” said Kirill. “May your strength not be exhausted and may God’s help for you be great,” he concluded. Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian Orthodox since 2009, put his Church at the service of Vladimir Putin and had already called it a “miracle” in 2012. Both men share ambitions for a conservative, dominating Russia, and the Russian religious leader supports the assault on Ukraine. in particular because of the tolerance towards LGBT people. Just last week, Vladimir Putin had denounced the advent of “Satanism” there. Other Russian officials were quick to congratulate the Russian president on Friday. a people” and “one of the most influential and exceptional personalities of contemporary times”. The Speaker of the Lower House of Parliament, Vyacheslav Volodin, posted a drawn portrait of the Russian President proclaiming “if there is Putin, there is Russia”.SEE ALSO – Head of the Russian Orthodox Church says may death in Ukraine “wash away all sins”