Hungary manages to lift EU sanctions against Patriarch Kirill

Hungary has once again insisted on the removal of Patriarch Kirill, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, from the EU sanctions list. This was stated by Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó.

The 15th EU sanctions package, aimed at increasing pressure on Russia, includes restrictions on 54 individuals and 30 entities. The sanctions target those who, according to the EU, "undermine or pose a threat to the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine".

This is the third time Budapest has sought Patriarch Kirill's removal from the sanctions list, arguing its decision on the defence of religious freedoms.

As reported by the UOJ, Patriarch Bartholomew accused the head of the Russian Orthodox Church of preaching anti-Christianity.

Read also

Serbian Church officially receives back land of 15th-century monastery

An agreement was signed in Belgrade transferring the territory of the ancient Vojlovica Monastery to the Banat Eparchy.

Pat Daniiel comments on conflict between Phanar bishop and community in Turkey

The Bulgarian Primate believes that the hierarch of the Constantinople Patriarchate should not have forced the Bulgarian community in Edirne to serve in Greek.

Patriarch Bartholomew congratulates Patriarch Shio on his election

In his message of congratulations, Patriarch Bartholomew called for joint witness before the world within the framework of “pan-Orthodox unity.”

Georgian priest in Germany: Patriarch Shio will preserve Ilia II’s legacy

Priest Elias Schlepegrell, who was present at the election in Tbilisi, said there is a clear disposition toward preserving Ilia II’s line and the unity of the Georgian Church.

Most Holy Theotokos Belt to arrive in UOC's Mukachevo Eparchy

From May 17 to June 1, 2026, the faithful of Zakarpattia will have the opportunity to venerate one of Christianity’s great holy relics.

Scholars unveil restored 13th-century icon from Rivne region

Researchers have completed the restoration of the Hodegetria icon and are preparing it for an exhibition in Lviv.