Met. Theodosiy of Cherkasy Was Poisoned, Sources Say

Met. Theodosius. Photo: Cherkasy Eparchy

CHERKASY — On Nov. 29, 2025, details emerged about the health of Met. Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv and the possible causes of his critical condition. According to UOJ sources, there is reason to believe the hierarch was poisoned.

As reported by UOJ-Ukraine, the Cherkasy Diocese shared that a little over a month ago the hierarch began showing signs of an unusual illness. It was neither a manifestation of hypertension nor a heart condition, both of which he has suffered from for many years. During this period, his temperature often spiked, and he experienced sharp fluctuations in blood pressure — from very high readings to critically low ones. His overall condition remained consistently severe, forcing him to cancel or reschedule a number of services and events.

This week, the Metropolitan’s condition worsened dramatically, and an expanded set of tests showed several indicators elevated by 10–15 times above normal. At the doctor’s insistence, he was immediately hospitalized.

According to medical staff, during diagnosis and treatment, a broad examination for poisonous substances in the hierarch’s body will be conducted.

UOJ sources report that Met. Theodosiy was likely poisoned with heavy metals. “Severe intoxication continues, the condition is relatively stable for now, but the Metropolitan remains in the hospital,” the sources said. According to the same information, testing for toxins may take about a month.

The diocese expressed gratitude to the faithful for their support and asked them not to cease praying for Met. Theodosiy's health.

Previously, UOJ reported that Met. Theodosiy had urged Pat. Bartholomew to revoke the Tomos of Autocephaly granted to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU).

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