Romfea: U.S. Played Leading Role in Metr. Arseny’s Release
Romfea reports that U.S. pressure was decisive in securing Metr. Arseny’s release.
KYIV — The Greek ecclesiastical news outlet Romfea reports that the United States played a leading role in the release of Metr. Arseny of the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), who was recently transferred to house arrest after nearly two years of detention without trial.
According to Romfea, the development was not merely a judicial decision but the result of sustained and coordinated political pressure from Washington. International lawyer Robert Amsterdam publicly thanked participants in the Society of St. John’s Congressional Day of Action in support of the UOC, describing it as a significant lobbying initiative within the U.S. Congress focused on religious freedom concerns.
Romfea emphasizes that when American lawmakers raise such issues—particularly given the United States’ substantial support for Ukraine—the political implications are considerable. The outlet suggests that mounting international scrutiny increased pressure on the administration of Volodymyr Zelensky, contributing to the hierarch’s release to house arrest.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Rep. Luna responded to the UOC appeal and vowed action against forced church seizures in Ukraine.
