Amsterdam: Ukraine uses judiciary as an instrument of torture of UOC clergy
Metropolitan Longin (Zhar). Photo: x.com/robertamsterdam
On October 31, American lawyer Robert Amsterdam responded to the situation during a court hearing involving Metropolitan Longin of Bancheny. The human rights advocate wrote on his X account, condemning the Ukrainian authorities’ use of the judicial system as a tool for torturing and intimidating clergy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC).
“We are informed that Metropolitan Longin, who has long suffered serious medical ailments, experienced a heart attack during one of his extended hearings related to his show trial. He was rushed to emergency care,” he informed his followers.
Robert Amsterdam emphasized his belief that the charges brought against Metropolitan Longin and other clergymen are false.
“We completely denounce these false charges brought against Longin and others, and denounce Ukraine's use of the judicial system as an instrument of torture and intimidation of the UOC clergy.,” the lawyer stated. “President Zelenskyy should hang his head in shame over the abuse and mistreatment of Orthodox Christians which has been enabled by Law 3894.”
As previously reported by the UOJ, the defender of the UOC hierarch noted that Metropolitan Longin’s health has significantly deteriorated during the court proceedings.
Read also
In Odesa region, Jehovah's Witness sentenced to three years for draft evasion
A resident of the Odesa region who practices the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses received a real prison sentence due to his refusal to perform military service based on his convictions.
Metropolitan Theodosiy explains why persecutions benefit the Church
The bishop called not to justify evil but to see in trials an opportunity to achieve humility and love – the goals of Christian life.
Court finds Metropolitan Theodosiy guilty
The court found Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy guilty of inciting inter-religious hatred.
Foreign Minister congratulates Dumenko and presents him with valuable watch
Dumenko discussed with the Foreign Minister the role of the OCU during wartime and the significance of the Tomos of Autocephaly.
Kherson Holy Spirit Cathedral of UOC shelled again
Shells damaged the church roof, the bell tower and the chapel. The eparchial administration buildings also suffered from shelling.
Greek authorities to close illegal mosques in Athens
A large-scale inspection of religious sites has begun in Athens, during which authorities intend to close around 60 mosques operating without permits