Novynskyi Speaks Out on Tucker Carlson: “I Will Be Further Persecuted, But I Am Not Afraid”

May 23, 2025—In an interview with Tucker Carlson, former Ukrainian parliamentarian Vadym Novynskyi voiced grave concerns about the state of religious freedom and constitutional governance in Ukraine. Novynskyi, a long-time supporter and senior deacon of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), accused the government of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of systematic persecution against the UOC and dismantling democratic institutions.

Novynskyi praised Carlson for shedding light on the situation, stating that open discussion in Western media was previously “impossible.” He thanked Vice President JD Vance for being the first U.S. politician to speak publicly in support of the UOC.

Tucker mentioned the fact that Zelenskyy is no longer an elected president, and the two speak of how he has usurped constitutional power in Ukraine. "the Constitutional Court is not working, it was destroyed by Zelenskyy." Novynskyi continues, "The judicial branch is not functioning and is currently paralyzed. There are no laws at present. As the president said, the constitution has been put on pause." 

Novynskyi described Ukraine as existing under de facto martial rule, claiming that the judiciary is paralyzed and that dissent is met with state retaliation. Despite facing multiple sanctions and investigations, he declared he is unafraid and remains committed to his faith and country.

"I was personally sanctioned by Zelenskyy. He signed three decrees imposing sanctions on me under various pretexts. I have various criminal investigations going on against me for false and groundless accusations. And after this interview, and after I say what I think is happening in our country, I am sure that there will be more persecution against me, but I am not afraid....

I've been sanctioned based on the religious principles for my support of the church... I've put in a list with other religious individuals as the senior deacon of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. I'm number one on that list. I have been a supporter of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church for the last 20 years. I have helped them when the judicial authorities do not work."

When asked about continued U.S. aid to Ukraine, Novynskyi affirmed that support should not be withdrawn—but emphasized the need for strict oversight. He argued that aid must be directed toward alleviating the suffering of ordinary Ukrainians, rather than being diverted by President Zelenskyy and the political elite.

While critical of Zelenskyy’s policies, Novynskyi emphasized continued prayers for national leaders, emphasizing how the UOC offers daily prayers for Zelensky.

"We pray for the authorities; we pray for Zelensky, that at one point they may come to their senses and stop [persecuting the Church -ed]. We truly hope that Zelensky may fulfill his promise and restore religious peace. Because 95% to 97% [of Ukrainain' who voted for Zelensky -ed] voted for him as a peace president and to stop the religious hatred going on in our country."

Novynskyi concluded with a hopeful message, calling for international Christian solidarity and the truth of Christ's Church.

We receive a lot of support from the Jerusalem Church, the Georgia Church, the Serbian Church and their patriarchs. And we receive a lot of brotherly love and support, and a lot prayer, because that is our main strength, prayer. And the Church will not be defeated. A true canonical Church will be not defeated. The communists couldn't defeat us in the 20th century, because Christ is the Church, the head of the Church is Christ. And consequences will be bad for those who oppose Him. And we will pass these trials, and we will be purified. And we are very grateful to you and for everyone doing anything for our Church."

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