Vladimir Putin met with Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem and presented him with a state award

On Thursday, November 5, 2026, an official meeting took place in Moscow between Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, and Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem, who had arrived in Russia on a visit. According to the Orthodox Times, during the event, the head of state presented the primate of the Orthodox Church of Jerusalem with the Russian Order of Friendship.

In an official setting, Vladimir Putin expressed his gratitude to Patriarch Theophilos III, emphasizing the significance of his visit and the presentation of this high honor. “It is a great honor for me to present you with this order,” the president said during the solemn ceremony, which was also attended by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia.

According to sources, earlier that same day, Patriarch Theophilus III held a working meeting with Patriarch Kirill. During this dialogue, the Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church briefed his guest in detail on key aspects of church life in Moscow, as well as on the current activities and initiatives of the Russian Orthodox Church.