Ostapenko admits that Lavra buildings can be taken only after an appeal

Maksym Ostapenko. Photo: Ukrinform

Acting Director of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Reserve Maksym Ostapenko, in a comment to 5 Channel, accidentally admitted that under the law, the forcible eviction of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church from the Lower Lavra premises is possible only after a decision by the appellate court.

When asked by the journalist whether the decision of the Economic Court allows the executive service to be involved "so that the reserve can finally take possession of its premises," Ostapenko responded negatively.

"There is a certain legal procedure. The legal decisions need to take effect procedurally. Most likely, an appeal will be filed, and only after that can other bodies be involved, including the executive service," the official said.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the monastery would file an appeal against the decision of the Economic Court regarding the Lavra.

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