AFU soldiers and OCU clergy on Athos: "Ukraine above all! Death to enemies!"
The Ukrainian delegation at the port of Ouranoupoli. Photo: Screenshot from the DRM News YouTube channel
At the end of November 2024, Ukrainian military personnel, together with representatives of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), visited the Holy Mountain of Athos. During their visit, they shouted slogans such as "Ukraine above all!" and wished death to their enemies.
A report published on the DRM News YouTube channel on January 3 described the visit, highlighting that the group consisted of 22 Ukrainian soldiers, both physically wounded and those suffering from psychological trauma caused by the war.
The trip, spanning over 1,000 kilometers, was part of a psychological rehabilitation program for war participants. The soldiers visited monastic communities, participated in prayers, and took part in religious rites.
Accompanying the soldiers on the trip were "clergy" of the OCU. Footage shows the Ukrainian delegation shouting "Ukraine above all!" in one of the Athonite cells. At the conclusion of their visit, the group gathered at the port of Ouranoupoli, located on the Athos Peninsula, where they chanted slogans like "Glory to the nation! Death to enemies!" multiple times.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the OCU announced a fundraising campaign for the construction of the "first Ukrainian-language monastery" on Mount Athos.
Read also
UOC priest of Odesa Eparchy released from TRC
The rector of the Holy Trinity Church of the UOC in the village of Troyandove was detained in the TRC for five days.
Authorities to create a new body to combat anti-Semitism, Jews oppose it
The United Jewish Community opposed the creation of the position of special coordinator, considering it a duplication of functions.
UOC parishes of Rivne Eparchy being inspected for ties with ROC
The Eparchial Council drafted an official appeal to the local authorities.
Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra commemorates St. Agapitus of the Caves
Solemn services were held at the St. Agapitus Church of the monastery.
Former cleric of UOC suing Bishop Theodosiy over words "Judas-traitor"
The metropolitan is accused of “inciting enmity and insulting citizens based on their religious beliefs”.
International appeal to UNESCO to protect Sinai Monastery published
The initiative was supported by Archbishop Damianos of Sinai.