Jerusalem Armenian Patriarch Asks President Putin to Return Shushi and Hadrut to Artsakh

On November 20, the Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, Archbishop Nourhan Manougian, sent an official letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing gratitude for the signing of the ceasefire and the cessation of war. This was reported by Radio Liberty.

In his letter, the Armenian Patriarch requested that President Putin return the cities of Shushi and Hadrut to Artsakh, along with the ancient monasteries, churches, chapels, khachkars, and other holy sites of the Armenian Apostolic Church, whose protection has become a significant issue as acts of vandalism have already begun against them.

The Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem also reminded that for the past 15 years during the Feast of Lights, the Russians have been allocated a spot in the Armenian section, thus facilitating the transport of the holy fire to Russia.

The Haifa community, led by local and northern city spiritual leader Father Tigran Khachikian, has implemented 16 different programs throughout the war, in addition to participating in national and inter-Israeli fundraising initiatives.

In an interview with Radio Liberty regarding a possible response from the Russian President, the priest stated, "Their opinion will be taken into account because Jerusalem is one of those unique centers that has had and continues to have an influence on overall geopolitical processes. However, we must also consider the agreement that was reached on November 10. We should also take into account the trilateral agreement signed on November 9." He believes that Russia, being a Christian nation, will take some steps in this direction.

During the war, the small Armenian community in Israel provided assistance worth more than $250,000, and efforts continue through fundraising and various programs to provide aid to Armenia and Artsakh.