Trump-Linked Pastor Says He Visited Kyiv to Counter Claims of Religious Persecution

Pastor Mark Burns during a meeting with Ukraine's "religious leaders." Photo: Rabbi Asman/Facebook

KYIV — American pastor Mark Burns, described by Ukraine’s Chief Rabbi Moshe Asman as “Trump’s spiritual advisor,” said he was invited to Ukraine to address alleged disinformation about religious freedom in the country. Speaking to Ukrinform, Burns claimed his visit was organized by Rabbi Asman to facilitate meetings with diverse religious leaders.

Burns reported that leaders from various faiths – including Jews, Baptists, Orthodox Christians, and Muslims – affirmed they faced no restrictions on religious practice. Notably, however, no representatives of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), which has faced increasing state pressure and legal action, were included in the discussions.

Burns said he briefed U.S. President Donald Trump on the trip and shared photos from Bucha and Irpin. He also met with U.S. senators to advocate for continued aid to Ukraine and later sat down with Presidential Office head Andriy Yermak, praising his leadership.

Just last week, on June 17, 2025, the schismatic Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) and hired militants attempted to seize the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Chernivtsi, injuring multiple priests.

A new strategy of Ukrainian authorities is also being employed to suppress the clergy of the UOC: drafting them en masse into the military.

Previously, UOJ reported that Burns had dismissed reports of religious persecution in Ukraine as “fake news.” 

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