OCU "hierarch" explains why he has a Russian passport

Kliment Kusch. Photo: mbk-news.appspot.com

The head of the Crimean diocese of the OCU, Kliment Kusch, explained that he needs a Russian passport to preserve both his personal and church property in Crimea, reports DetectorUA. Interviewer.

Commenting on Saken Aymurzayev's remark about photos of his Russian passport, Kliment Kusch stated that he is "a Ukrainian citizen with a Russian passport."

"The scandal doesn't stop: does Kliment have a passport or not? Yes, I do. Yes, I have it, because if I didn’t have that passport, I would not have the right to serve in Crimea. I would have lost all property, not only church property but also my personal belongings that I have in Crimea," explained the "hierarch."

Kliment also believes that anyone "trying to stir up controversy" over his passport is being paid by the FSB.

Furthermore, he pointed out that "those who consider this passport valid and legitimate are committing a criminal offense under Ukrainian law. The law on occupied territories states that this passport is not recognized as a valid document."

"If you recognize it, then you acknowledge the annexation and everything that is happening there. This raises the question: how much is the FSB paying you to promote the Russian passport issued in Crimea?" the "metropolitan" Kliment asked.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the OCU "hierarch" with a Russian passport was surprised why everyone is discussing "this piece of paper".

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