Church of Cyprus condemns Russian intelligence service attack on Ecumenical Patriarch

On February 12, 2026, the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus issued a formal statement regarding an attack against the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Patriarch Bartholomew. The Synod described the actions of the Foreign Intelligence Service of a fellow Orthodox country—identified in reports as Russia's SVR—as unacceptable and contrary to Christian ethics. According to the Church of Cyprus, the external service had characterized the Patriarch as an instrument of Western intelligence. The Synod emphasized the Ecumenical Patriarchate's historical role in convening all Ecumenical Councils and shaping Christian doctrine. The statement noted that the Church of Cyprus, though autocephalous since the Third Ecumenical Council, deeply respects the Patriarchate's unique contribution to ecclesiastical administration. It argued that churches founded and organized much later should show greater respect to the institution from which they received Christianity and their autocephaly. The Synod also praised the Patriarch's efforts in inter-Christian dialogue, human rights, and environmental protection. The declaration concluded by expressing unreserved support for the Ecumenical Patriarch in his ongoing duties.