Putin Requests His Initials Engraved on Crosses for Russian Soldiers Fighting in Ukraine

Vladimir Putin requested his initials be engraved on the chains of crosses to be distributed to Russian soldiers, according to Russia’s state news agency TASS on January 7.

During Putin’s visit to the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia blessed crosses and icons intended for soldiers fighting in the Ukraine.

“I believe our comrades will feel honored to receive these symbols of faith, consecrated by the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia during the Christmas Eve service,” Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary of Putin quoted the Russian leader.

Additionally, Peskov reported that during their conversation, Putin extended Christmas greetings to Patriarch Kirill and shared his intention to present the blessed items to the commanders of the military groups “tasked with ensuring the country’s security in the special military operation zone.”

It was previously reported that Putin celebrated Christmas with Russian soldiers, volunteers, and their families at the Church of St. George the Victorious in Moscow.

At the end of November 2024, Patriarch Kirill stated that Christians should not fear the end of the world, even in the context of nuclear weapons.