UOC Priest Sent to Military Training Center Despite Three Health Abnormalities

KRAMATORSK, UKRAINE — Fr. Oleg Kruchinin, rector of the Intercession Church of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) in Kramatorsk, was detained by Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support (TRC) officers and subsequently sent to a military training center in the Zhytomyr region, according to the First Cossack Telegram channel.

The priest was reportedly taken to Kharkiv after his detention, where he underwent a military medical examination. According to the report, the medical commission identified three health abnormalities, but determined that none of them provided grounds for a deferment from military conscription. The specific medical conditions were not disclosed.

Following the examination, Fr. Oleg was transported to a training center in Zhytomyr region. The First Cossack report says he is subsequently expected to be transferred to Kramatorsk, where he previously served as rector of the Intercession Church.

The circumstances of the priest’s detention have prompted concern among members of his parish. Parishioners of the UOC are asking the faithful to pray for Fr. Oleg as he remains at the training center. His case comes amid other recent reports involving UOC clergy being taken to military facilities after proceedings with TRC authorities.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the TRC detained a UOC priest serving two village parishes.