Ukrainian Orthodox Church refuses to leave Kyiv monastery amid eviction order

Ukrainian government accuses UOC of ties to Moscow

The Ukrainian government’s ongoing crackdown on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) over its ties to Moscow has reached a new level as the government seeks to evict the church from its historic home at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The monastery complex, which dates back to the 11th century, is home to hundreds of monks and is considered one of the holiest sites in Ukraine.

Lavra artifacts being checked by police

As part of the eviction process, police are currently checking all artifacts in the monastery complex to ensure that none of them are removed unlawfully. The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is home to more than 800 icons, crosses, and other priceless artifacts that could be targeted for theft or smuggling during the eviction process.

UOC maintains ties with Moscow despite split

The UOC’s ties to Moscow have been a source of controversy since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite officially cutting ties with the Moscow Patriarchate, the UOC has been accused of maintaining hidden relationships with Russia. The government claims that some in the church were too close to Moscow and were Russian fifth columnists.

UN expresses concern over treatment of UOC

The United Nations High Commission for Human Rights has expressed concern over “state actions against the UOC” and has called for a “fair trial” for those facing criminal charges. The Orthodox Public Affairs Committee (OPAC) has also spoken out against the treatment of the UOC and has called for unification talks with the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Ukraine.

Monks refuse to leave despite eviction order

Despite an order from the government to vacate the premises by March 29, monks at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra are refusing to leave. The UOC claims that there is no document obliging them to leave on that specific day. The situation has escalated as the government threatens to use force to remove the monks from the premises.

Lavra seen as hub of “Russian propaganda”

The government claims that the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is currently a hub of “Russian world” propaganda and already allowed the rival Orthodox Church of Ukraine to use one of the Lavra’s churches for a Christmas service. In response, Metropolitan Epiphany, the leader of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, stated that the current affairs of the Lavra will be managed by those who have not tarnished themselves with devotion to the “Russian world.”

Future of UOC uncertain in Ukraine

The Ukrainian parliament is currently considering a draft law that would make it impossible for religious organizations affiliated with Moscow to operate in Ukraine. This law could significantly impact the UOC, which still maintains strong ties and sympathies with Russia. As tensions escalate between Ukraine and Russia, it remains uncertain what role, if any, the UOC will play in Ukraine’s future.

In conclusion, the eviction of monks from the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is just one example of how tensions between Ukraine and Russia are playing out on multiple fronts. As both governments seek to exert control over religious institutions in Ukraine, it remains unclear what lasting impact these actions will have on both sides.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons