In a notable demonstration of faith intersecting with global affairs, Franklin Graham, president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin on May 28, 2025. The meeting, held during the European Congress on Evangelism, underscored the role of spiritual leadership amid geopolitical turmoil.
Graham, a prominent evangelical leader, offered prayers for President Zelenskyy, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and U.S. President Donald Trump, seeking divine guidance for a path to peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He emphasized the complexities of the war, stating, “These are very difficult, and I believe only God can solve this.”
The European Congress on Evangelism, hosted by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, gathered over 1,000 Christian leaders from 55 countries. Graham’s address highlighted the importance of prayer and unity among believers, especially in times of crisis. He called upon delegates to pray aloud for the leaders involved in the conflict, emphasizing the power of collective intercession.
President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the humanitarian aid provided by Samaritan’s Purse, including support for Ukrainian children, displaced individuals, and medical institutions. He acknowledged the strong support from the American people and President Trump, stating, “Thank you for your prayers and for helping people.”
The meeting took place against a backdrop of intensified Russian military action in Ukraine. Recent reports indicate escalating Russian air and ground assaults, with increased use of drones by both sides. Germany has announced plans to assist Ukraine in producing long-range missiles, marking a significant deepening of support for Ukraine’s defense industry.
Graham’s visit coincided with the European Congress on Evangelism being held in Berlin for the first time in 25 years. From Ukraine to the U.K. and Sweden to Spain, over 1,000 pastors and ministry leaders from across Europe gathered to declare that they are “unashamed of the Gospel,” echoing the words of Romans 1:16. Wikipedia+4Fox News+4Facebook+4
The congress marks a return to the roots of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s global evangelistic mission. Graham emphasized the need for an army of evangelists—unafraid, unashamed, unapologetic, uncompromising—standing on the Word of God to reach Europe. YouTube+3Fox News+3Evangelical Focus+3Evangelical Focus
In his prayer, Graham sought wisdom for the leaders involved in the conflict, stating, “Father, we pray tonight for President Putin… that you would give him wisdom, that you would work in his heart, and that he would desire to have peace.” He also prayed for President Zelenskyy and President Trump, asking for divine guidance to bring about peace. www.christiandaily.com+1Fox News+1
Graham’s emphasis on prayer and spiritual intervention highlights the belief that, amidst complex geopolitical conflicts, divine guidance is paramount. His meeting with President Zelenskyy and subsequent prayers underscore the role of faith leaders in advocating for peace and providing humanitarian support during times of crisis.Fox News+2www.christiandaily.com+2Wikipedia+2
The European Congress on Evangelism continues to serve as a platform for Christian leaders to unite in prayer and action, addressing both spiritual and humanitarian needs across the globe. Graham’s involvement reinforces the commitment of faith-based organizations to support those affected by conflict and to seek divine solutions to worldly challenges