Met. Arseniy's Blood Pressure Soars During Trial, Forcing Postponement

Source: UOJ Ukraine

KYIV — A Sobornyi District Court session on the second criminal case against Met. Arseniy, abbot of the Sviatohirsk Lavra, descended into chaos as the bishop's health deteriorated in the courtroom, forcing a postponement, according to a report from the UOJ's Ukraine bureau.

The hearing addressed a defense motion to recuse the investigator but was marred by procedural violations, including delayed access for lawyers. Believers from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) packed the courtroom in support.

Authorities forcibly transported Met. Arseniy from pre-trial detention to review case materials, but he refused without counsel, demanding a court appearance. The session started late, with defense rights repeatedly infringed.

High blood pressure triggered an ambulance call; medics provided on-site aid. Lawyers requested the delay, granted until Monday—time unspecified, with notification promised.

Despite Saturday's non-working status and the bishop's condition, investigators scheduled another forced transfer for November 29 for vague "procedural actions." Defenders decry delays in their motions—e.g., the investigator's recusal pending over 10 days—versus swift prosecution reviews, questioning court impartiality.

The Lavra brotherhood urged intensified prayers. Met. Arseniy previously declared: "They urge me to [leave the country], but my people are in Ukraine."

On the same day, Met. Theodosiy—another UOC bishop being subject to persecution—was also hospitalized, apparently having suffered a heart attack.

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