Poroshenko: Noone in US raises the issue of freedom of conscience in Ukraine

Petro Poroshenko. Photo: Priamyi

The head of the European Solidarity faction, Petro Poroshenko, stated that Bill 8371, which effectively bans the UOC, should be adopted immediately as it complies with international norms and that Western partners have not expressed criticism regarding this legislative initiative, according to the Priamyi TV channel.

He criticized the actions of the Verkhovna Rada regarding the revision of Bill 8371 and claimed that delaying the vote on this matter is a crime.

"We were told that we need to convene the working group a few more times and hold international consultations. The working group was not convened even in two weeks. International consultations, including those in the U.S., clearly demonstrated that neither Washington nor Congress or public circles have raised the issue of freedom of religion or conscience in Ukraine," Poroshenko stated.

He reiterated that this bill does not violate the rights of any Ukrainian Church and is being adopted in the interests of national security. For those who doubt, the leader of 'European Solidarity' suggested sending the bill to the Venice Commission, but only after its adoption.

As reported by the UOJ, Poroshenko previously stated that Michael Jackson was against the Russian Orthodox Church.

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