Statements by AFU soldiers against the ban on the UOC reminded online

Ukrainian Armed Forces soldier. Photo: Screenshot from headlines video

Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) soldiers are urging deputies not to vote for Bill No. 8371, which effectively bans the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). In a video message published by the Headlines Telegram channel, the soldiers ask lawmakers to carefully consider all potential consequences of passing this law to "avoid taking rash steps that could harm the unity and security of the country."

"We, the soldiers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, who risk our lives daily for the freedom and independence of our homeland, appeal to you not to vote for Bill No. 8371, which effectively bans the Ukrainian Orthodox Church," the video states.

They note that at the front, all soldiers fight for the country regardless of their religious beliefs.

"Indeed, I cannot calmly watch my state being divided by religion. Here, there are guys who belong to Islam, Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants. No one divides anyone at the front. We all defend our state of Ukraine together," emphasizes an AFU soldier.

Previously, some of the appeals from Ukrainian servicemen were published on the Myriany Telegram channel.

As the UOJ reported, political expert Valentyn Haidai stated that banning the UOC would put an end to Ukraine's EU membership prospects.

Read also

Poland marks 100th anniversary of Lemkos’ return to Orthodoxy

Hierarchs of the Polish Orthodox Church led celebrations in Gorlice marking the 100th anniversary of the Lemkos’ return to the Orthodox faith.

Kyiv Metropolis court hearing postponed again

Kyiv’s Sixth Administrative Court of Appeal postponed the hearing in DESS’s lawsuit against the Kyiv Metropolis until October 7.

Patriarch Theophilos receives Metropolitan of Rivne and eparchy pilgrims

The Patriarch of Jerusalem met with pilgrims from the Rivne Eparchy and gave the faithful his blessing.

UGCC reps gift Pope with embroidered Ukrainian shirt

The UGCC members said it was important to tell the pontiff about Ukrainians who had migrated to Europe because of the war.

“Ancient Kyiv” head complains OCU barred him from capital church

Roman Malenkov said OCU representatives called him a Bolshevik.

Greek theologian voices support for Sviatohirsk Lavra brotherhood

Theologian Michail Maroudis said it is impossible to remain indifferent to the tragedy in Sviatohirsk and called for prayers for the slain monk.