Statements by AFU soldiers against the ban on the UOC reminded online
Ukrainian Armed Forces soldier. Photo: Screenshot from headlines video
Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) soldiers are urging deputies not to vote for Bill No. 8371, which effectively bans the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). In a video message published by the Headlines Telegram channel, the soldiers ask lawmakers to carefully consider all potential consequences of passing this law to "avoid taking rash steps that could harm the unity and security of the country."
"We, the soldiers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, who risk our lives daily for the freedom and independence of our homeland, appeal to you not to vote for Bill No. 8371, which effectively bans the Ukrainian Orthodox Church," the video states.
They note that at the front, all soldiers fight for the country regardless of their religious beliefs.
"Indeed, I cannot calmly watch my state being divided by religion. Here, there are guys who belong to Islam, Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants. No one divides anyone at the front. We all defend our state of Ukraine together," emphasizes an AFU soldier.
Previously, some of the appeals from Ukrainian servicemen were published on the Myriany Telegram channel.
As the UOJ reported, political expert Valentyn Haidai stated that banning the UOC would put an end to Ukraine's EU membership prospects.
Read also
Petition Warns Canada’s Hate Speech Law Could Criminalize Scripture
Thousands of Canadians have signed a petition urging the Liberal government to drop proposed hate-speech changes that critics warn could criminalize quoting the Bible and other religious texts.
JD Vance: Criticizing Israel Is Not Antisemitism
Vice President JD Vance said opposing Israeli policies is not the same as antisemitism, sparking debate over where criticism of Israel ends and hatred of Jews begins.
First Orthodox Prayer Book Published in Indonesian Language
The first Orthodox prayer book in Indonesian has been published and presented in Bekasi, providing local faithful and new converts with a vital resource for prayer and liturgical life.
OCA Joins Legal Challenge to Illinois Abortion Referral Law
Amicus brief argues mandate violates religious freedom and compels pro-life providers to contradict their faith.
EXCLUSIVE: Leaked Ukrainian Memo Says Religious Freedom is ‘Achilles Heel’
In an emergency strategy meeting held in response to the Society of St. John's Day of Action, D.C.-based Ukrainian lobbyists acknowledged the weight of the religious freedom issue as it pertains to the Ukrainian government’s public perception.
Historic $2.9 Million Bequest Strengthens Greek Orthodox Foundation
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation has received a record $2.9 million bequest from the late Andy Efthim, a devoted layman whose faith-filled generosity will support the Church’s mission for generations.