National Unity Minister discusses support for Ukrainians abroad with Dumenko
Chernyshov waits as Dumenko signs his certificate for a medal. Photo: OCU
On March 21, 2025, a meeting took place at the residence of Epiphany Dumenko between him and Oleksiy Chernyshov, Minister of the Ministry of National Unity, according to the website of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU).
The two discussed "support for Ukrainians who have received temporary protection abroad, along with other current issues."
Chernyshov presented Dumenko with a painting featuring a pomegranate, while Dumenko gifted the minister a commemorative coin with a certificate.
It is worth noting that the provisions of the Tomos prohibit the OCU from establishing parishes outside Ukraine.
Earlier, MP Mykola Kniazhytsky accused UOC parishioners abroad of espionage due to their husbands serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Prior to that, the OCU 'priest' had called on “relevant authorities” to investigate UOC clergy serving abroad. The Union of Orthodox Journalists also reported that UGCC head Sviatoslav Shevchuk urged Ukrainian authorities to take action against UOC communities abroad.
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