Destro in US Congress condemns silence on UOC persecution

Robert Destro. Photo: X Robert Amsterdam

On June 4, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Robert Destro spoke at hearings in Congress and in his speech condemned the hypocrisy of official Washington regarding the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church by the authorities, reports the UOC lawyer Robert Amsterdam on his X account.

"We say we are for religious freedom, but we are for the deconstruction of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church," Destro addressed the congressmen. "We, you, know that the Ukrainian authorities are arresting priests and nuns. You know how it looks – they fund Greek Orthodox newspapers but are silent about Ukrainian ones. The organization of Ukrainian journalists, Orthodox journalists, nothing is said about them."

The former assistant secretary stated that such hypocrisy is unacceptable and shameful.

As reported, Robert Destro, who served as Assistant Secretary of State from 2017-2021 and is a key member of U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump's team, spoke out against the collective responsibility of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church's parishioners.

Read also

Metr. Saba Appeals for Lebanon Relief Donations

Metr. Saba calls for urgent donations to aid displaced families in Lebanon.

New Orthodox Parish School Set to Open in Pennsylvania

"The School has been in the prayers of St. John Chrysostom Orthodox Church since the community's founding in 1992," a press release states. "Through God, all things are possible!"

Ancient Monastic Complex Found in Egypt

A newly discovered Egyptian site highlights the scale and sophistication of early monastic life.

Ukrainian Protodeacon Alleges False Prosecutions of Priests

Protodeacon Vadim Novinsky said that the vast majority of criminal cases opened against Ukrainian Orthodox Church clergy are fabricated, with the government threatening them to accept plea deals.

Abp. Mark Visits Holy Apostles Parish for Lenten Weekend

Abp. Mark’s visit blended worship, teaching, and encouragement during the Lenten journey.

Abp. Alexei Delivers Lenten Homily in Anchorage

A Lenten homily in Alaska called the faithful back to patient, step-by-step transformation in Christ.