Emeritus patriarch Filaret, a prominent figure in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and a key leader of the Kyiv Patriarchate since its founding in 1992, has died at the age of 98. His death was announced by the current head of the church, Metropolitan Epiphany I. Filaret was instrumental in shaping the Orthodox Christian community in Ukraine, particularly following the independence of the country and the subsequent split from the Moscow Patriarchate.

He guided the church through significant challenges and was noted for his efforts to maintain unity among Orthodox Christians in Ukraine during a time of geopolitical tensions with Russia. Filaret's legacy also includes advocating for the establishment of an independent Ukrainian Orthodox Church that would operate free from external influence. His passing marks the end of an era for the Ukrainian Orthodox community and raises questions about the future direction of the church amid ongoing national and religious shifts.

Media outlets in Ukraine, such as the Kyiv Independent, have reported on his death, highlighting Filaret's importance in the religious landscape and the impact he had on the country's spiritual and national identity. As the church prepares for a transition in leadership, Filaret's contributions will likely be remembered as a defining moment in the history of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and its role in Ukraine's ongoing quest for religious autonomy and national unity.