Metr. Longin Calls on Ukrainians to Defend Imprisoned Sviatohirsk Lavra Abbot

Metr. Longin (left) and Metr. Arseniy. Photos: Manastirea banceni/Telegram and orthochristian.com

CHERNIVTSI, UKRAINE — As reported by UOJ-Ukraine, Metr. Longin of Bancheny has called on Orthodox believers across Ukraine to defend Metr. Arseny, the abbot of the Holy Dormition Sviatohirsk Lavra, who has been imprisoned for nearly two years.

In an appeal issued on January 13, 2026, Metr. Longin urged the faithful to speak out against what he described as the prolonged mistreatment of the hierarch. “It is time to defend Metr. Arseny, who is dear to the hearts and souls of believers,” he said. “I ask all Orthodox Ukraine to stand up for him. We can no longer tolerate the abuse of our pastor, which has continued for almost two years.”

Metr. Arseny has been held in detention for approximately 20 months, a case that has drawn criticism both inside Ukraine and abroad. Previously, international human rights lawyer Robert Amsterdam described the prosecution of Metr. Arseny as a “crime against humanity,” calling for his immediate release.

The case remains a focal point of concern for advocates of religious freedom.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Arseniy faced a forced, non-consensual surgery. 

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