DESS: The UOC threatens Ukraine's national security
Viktor Voynalovych. Photo: DESS
Viktor Voynalovych, an official of the State Service for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience , spoke about the destructive role of religious organizations in Ukraine that are controlled by Russia – apparently referring to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), according to the DESS website.
"Unfortunately, the Russian Orthodox Church has become part of the ideological apparatus of Russian aggression. We are forced to regard its activities in Ukraine as an element of hybrid warfare that threatens national security," said Voynalovych.
He also emphasized the importance of the recently adopted law "On Protecting the Constitutional Order in the Sphere of Religious Organizations' Activities," which, according to him, is not directed against religion but serves the interests of the state.
“This law does not discriminate against religion; it is merely aimed at protecting our sovereignty. Religion in Ukraine will always remain a source of unity, not a tool of division,” he stated.
As previously reported by the UOJ, DESS explained when the law banning the UOC would come into effect.
Read also
Metropolitan Longin Alleges Assassination Plot Against Him
Bancheny hierarch claims a group from Ivano-Frankivsk was sent to kill him.
Archbishop of Cyprus: Decision on Metropolitan Tychikos’ Appeal Expected in August
Hierarch retains presumption of innocence amid ongoing review by Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Holy Cross Seminarians Conclude Pilgrimage with Spiritual Encounters in Thessaloniki and Mount Athos
Students reflect on ministry and heritage during the final days of the transformative journey.
Estonian Government Passes New Law Against Orthodox Church
New legislation would force the Estonian Orthodox Church to cut its ties with the Moscow Patriarchate. This is depsite the fact that the Estonian Church has been autonomous since 1993.
Over 100 Souls Received Into the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa
The Russian Orthodox Church's missionary efforts bear fruit in Zambia and Cameroon.
OCU and Uniates Conduct Joint Consecration for Military Church Construction
"Hierarchs" Dumenko and Greek-Catholic Chaplains Conduct Joint Rite