Metr. Arseny Granted Daytime Freedom as Court Extends Restrictions

Photo: svlavra.church.ua

SVYATOHIRSK, UKRAINE — A Ukrainian court has eased restrictions on Metr. Arseny of Sviatohirsk, replacing his round-the-clock house arrest with a nighttime curfew while extending the preventive measure for another two months.

The decision was issued June 11 by the Chechelivskyi District Court in Dnipro during a hearing concerning the vicar of the Holy Dormition Sviatohirsk Lavra. Prosecutors sought to continue the hierarch’s 24-hour house arrest through August, while defense attorneys argued that the measure should be modified to allow greater freedom of movement during the day.

A key issue raised by the defense was the Metropolitan’s health following heart surgery. Speaking by video link, Metr. Arseny said doctors had recommended regular walks and physical activity as part of his rehabilitation. His attorneys also emphasized that he had complied with all court-imposed obligations and had not attempted to evade proceedings or influence witnesses.

Supporters of the Metropolitan, including clergy and faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), attended the hearing. Ukrainian parliament member Viktoria Hryb also joined the session remotely. Earlier in the day, monks of the Lavra and nuns from its skete gathered for prayers before the wonderworking Sviatohirsk Icon of the Mother of God.

In his remarks to the court, Metr. Arseny again rejected the accusations against him, stating that he does not consider himself guilty of any wrongdoing.

Judge Tetiana Bezruk ultimately ruled that the preventive measure would remain in place until Aug. 11 but would be changed to a nighttime house arrest schedule. Under the ruling, the Metropolitan must remain at home from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. and may move freely during the remainder of the day.

The next court hearing is scheduled for June 30.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a court extended the house arrest of Metr. Arseny in Ukraine.

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