In Cherkasy, a UN mission visits a seized cathedral and talks to UOC parish

A sealed church. Photo: Cherkasy Blagovestnik

Staff members of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission visited Cherkasy in connection with the forcible seizure of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church's cathedral and diocesan administration, according to the press service of the Cherkasy Eparchy. The visit was initiated by the mission and invited by Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv, who collaborates with the UN as a human rights defender.

The UN team focused on the incident that occurred on October 17, 2024, when armed individuals in camouflage uniforms seized the cathedral. Footage of the seizure widely circulated in the media.

During their stay in Cherkasy, UN human rights representatives engaged with victims, including Metropolitan Theodosiy, documenting testimonies, statements, and medical records. Some believers were still undergoing treatment following surgeries for sustained injuries. Several victims provided testimony anonymously due to concerns for their safety, citing law enforcement inaction.

UN mission staff received a comprehensive documentary record confirming violence against believers and the unlawful seizure of church property. Evidence, including videos and documents related to criminal cases, was handed over to the mission.

As previously reported by the UOJ, the Cherkasy Eparchy warned about the theft of Metropolitan Theodosiy's seal.

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