Orthodox Christians don't recognize the Pope's authority

Following the death of Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, the Vatican has begun a nine-day mourning period, prompting questions about the leadership of the broader Christian world. Eastern Orthodox Christians, including those in the Greek and Russian Orthodox Churches, do not recognize the Pope's authority, differing significantly from the Catholic Church. The Russian Orthodox Church, in particular, has a complex relationship with the Kremlin. The Russian Orthodox Church's close ties to Vladimir Putin's government have drawn scrutiny, especially regarding its support for Russia's actions in Ukraine, highlighting the church's role in Russian society.