Regional Ukrainian Authorities Ban Outdoor Religious Gatherings Through 2026

Representatives of the authorities and law enforcement agencies of the Vinnytsia region, speaking with religious leaders about the public ban. Photo: Department for Nationalities and Religions of Vinnytsia Regional State Administration / Facebook

VINNYTSIA, UKRAINE — Authorities in Ukraine’s Vinnytsia region have imposed a temporary ban on mass religious events held outside of church buildings, citing security concerns amid ongoing wartime conditions. The restrictions will remain in effect from April 4 through December 1, 2026.

The decision followed a meeting of the regional council of churches and religious organizations, attended by Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant representatives, along with officials from the regional military administration, police, and security services. The regional Defense Council ultimately approved the measure.

Officials stated that the ban covers religious processions, pilgrimages, and large outdoor prayer gatherings. According to Yuliy Mandryk, acting head of the regional department for nationalities and religious affairs, the move is intended to prevent sabotage and protect civilians from potential missile strikes. Authorities emphasized that the policy applies equally to all religious groups.

This ban is being imposed on the eve of Holy Week and Pascha, during which many Orthodox parishes traditionally have processions outside their church buildings and publicly in their local communities.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Israel announced a plan after a Holy Sepulchre dispute.

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