NSDC structure: Kremlin stokes situation around expulsion of UOC from Lavra

Emblem of the Center for Countering Disinformation. Photo: fakty.com.ua

On March 15, the Center for Countering Disinformation released a statement informing citizens that the main narrative of the day being promoted by Russian media is a video address by the Abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, Metropolitan Pavel (Lebed) and the brethren of the monastery to the authorities. The CCD wrote about this on their Facebook page.

"Pro-Russian media have picked up on this topic and present it as persecution of the canonical Orthodox Church. Everything is done in such a way that the audience must come to the conclusion that a 'sacred war' is inevitable," the CCD statement said.

In the same statement, the NSDC structure accuses Metropolitan Pavel of creating and disseminating a fake about darkened crosses on the Refectory Church as a result of the service of the OCU.

"Thus, we see that the Kremlin skillfully manipulates the church issue, casting its subordinates as victims. It also uses this issue to stir up the situation and increase the audience of supporters who will 'save' Orthodox Ukrainians," the CCD concludes.

As reported by the UOJ, the abbot and brethren of the Lavra appealed to the President, Cabinet of Ministers, and people regarding the eviction of the UOC from the monastery.

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