Dmytruk on monks’ expulsion: Ministry of Culture is the main internal enemy

Brethren of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra , 2018. Photo: a screenshot from the documentary "The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. A Photograph of a Millennium"

MP Artem Dmytruk commented on the statement by Acting Minister of Culture Rostyslav Karandeev that UOC monks must vacate the territory of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Otherwise, they will be forced out in a month.

"Khrushchev would turn over in his grave if he knew what a 'worthy' legacy he left behind. The Ministry of Culture, Karandeev and other persecutors of Orthodoxy are all useless elements of our state and its main internal enemies," the MP wrote on his Telegram channel on May 20.

According to Artem Dmytruk, such a "very dignified" action by the minister directly testifies to his incompetence and lack of understanding of the importance of the spiritual values of the Ukrainian people.

"The use of force against monks shows a complete disregard for the freedom of religion and the rights of believers," he noted. "Instead of seeking compromises and peaceful resolution of the issue, the Ministry of Culture's leadership chooses the path of confrontation and violence."

The MP wished patience and strength to the monks.

As reported by the UOJ, Acting Minister of Culture of Ukraine Rostyslav Karandeyev stated that UOC monks must transition to the OCU or vacate the territory of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Otherwise it will be done by force in a month.

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