Greek MEP Criticizes Ukraine Over Killing of UOC Monk

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM — Greek Member of the European Parliament Emmanouil Fragkos has criticized Ukraine following the killing of Monk Varsonofiy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church at the Sviatohirsk Holy Dormition Lavra. In a statement posted Aug. 27, Fragkos said he had written to Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, calling for accountability over the monk’s death.

Fragkos said the monk was fatally shot on Aug. 23 inside the monastery complex, while other members of the monastic community were injured. Citing the monastery’s account, he said the monk’s final words were, “Glory to the Lord Jesus Christ! I am a monk.”

In his letter to Kallas, Fragkos argued that the EU should respond to the killing within the broader context of religious tensions in Ukraine. He wrote, “The EU cannot apply the principle of religious freedom selectively,” and said the protection of religious freedom is a fundamental European principle.

Fragkos urged Kallas to press Ukrainian authorities for a full investigation, including examination of the killing’s motive and “any possible religious dimension.” He also called for the EU to help reduce tensions surrounding Ukraine’s ecclesiastical divisions.

“No political, national or military objective can justify violence, coercion or persecution against monks, clergy and believers,” Fragkos wrote. He concluded by urging the EU to make clear that “no monk, priest or believer should have to fear for their life, freedom or place of worship because of their ecclesiastical affiliation.”

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Nicholas mourned Monk Varsonofy in a message to Metr. Arseny.