OCU Hierarch Labels UOC a “Cancerous Tumor” in Social Media Post

Photo: Serhiy Horobtsov / Facebook

KYIV — A hierarch of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) has described the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) as an “enemy” and a “cancerous tumor” in a social media post addressing the role of religious institutions during the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.

In a Facebook statement, Serhiy Horobtsov argued that the UOC continues to serve as a representative of the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine and accused some of its clergy of promoting the ideology of the “Russian world.” He wrote that the struggle facing Ukraine extends beyond military operations and includes what he characterized as a battle for the spiritual future of the nation.

Horobtsov said that Russia seeks to influence Ukrainians not only through force but also through religious structures that remain connected to Moscow. He pointed to Russian Orthodox figures whom he said had supported Russia’s actions against Ukraine and asserted that religious influence can have long-term consequences for society. In his post, he maintained that institutions linked to the Moscow Patriarchate pose a threat to Ukraine’s independence and identity.

The OCU hierarch also addressed the situation in the Donetsk region, describing the destruction caused by the war and the hardships endured by local residents. He criticized UOC clergy who continue to serve in combat-zone areas, alleging that some have been instructed by church authorities to remain in their parishes despite the dangers posed by ongoing hostilities.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a UOC priest concelebrated with Patr. Shio III during a pilgrimage to Georgia.

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