Met. Theodosiy Remains Under Court Restriction for Two More Months
Court hearing on the case of Met. Theodosiy on December 26, 2025. Photo: suspilne.media
CHERKASY, UKRAINE — On December 26, 2025, the Sosnivskyi District Court in Cherkasy extended the preventive measure against Met. Theodosiy (Snihiriov) of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) in four ongoing criminal cases for an additional two months. The extension, reported by Suspilne, maintains the hierarch under a personal obligation.
Prosecutor Kateryna Kostenko argued for the extension, citing a “risk of evading the court” and claiming that Metropolitan Theodosiy could unlawfully influence victims and witnesses, obstruct proceedings, or commit further crimes. She also stated that the UOC hierarch allegedly holds Ukrainophobic views and harbors a negative attitude toward Ukrainian authorities and society.
Defense attorney Volodymyr Yudin rejected these claims as formalistic and contrived, noting that similar arguments had been previously addressed without affecting the preventive measure. Metropolitan Theodosiy himself supported his defense, calling the accusations groundless and a mockery directed at him and the Church.
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for January 13, 2026.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Met. Theodosiy's condition worsened in November after suspected poisoning.
Read also
OCA Offers Dedicated Retreat for Priests’ Wives and Widows
The OCA launches a retreat to foster deeper connection and renewal among clergy wives and widows.
Vladimir and Donskoy Icons Given to Church for 49-Year Use
Two of Russia’s most sacred icons have been entrusted to the Church while remaining under strict preservation oversight.
Amsterdam Criticizes Zelensky Over Religious Freedom Concerns
Robert Amsterdam accused Ukrainian authorities of undermining religious freedom through legislation targeting the UOC.
Metr. Saba Clarifies Practice of Holy Unction
Metr. Saba reaffirmed Holy Unction as a sacrament of healing and repentance while encouraging renewed faith in its use.
'The Aroma of Holiness' Premieres at St. Tikhon’s Orthodox University
The Moscow premiere of The Aroma of Holiness honored St. John’s legacy with rare footage, personal teachings, and veneration of his relics.
Bp. Anthony Issues Paschal Message for 2026
Bp. Anthony’s Paschal message proclaims Christ’s Resurrection as the answer to fear, giving eternal meaning to human life.