UOC hierarch to Cherkasy police: You should not obey criminal orders

Police on the grounds of St. Andrew’s Church (UOC). Photo: a video screenshot by the Cherkasy Eparchy

On May 6, 2025, Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv addressed police officers and other security forces involved in the forcible occupation of the seized St. Andrew’s Church of the UOC in Cherkasy, urging them not to follow knowingly unlawful orders.

“Brothers-police and security forces, all who are today taking part in what is being called ‘defending’ this church from believers, from Cherkasy residents, from the parishioners – you are carrying out a criminal order,” the hierarch stated.

He reminded them that the Constitution of Ukraine and the Law on the National Police grant officers the right not to comply with unlawful commands.

“You have every right not to obey criminal orders. And believe me – those who give you these orders today, those who command you, will scatter as soon as law and order return to Ukraine. But you will remain here and have to answer for your actions,” he warned.

Metropolitan Theodosiy said that Orthodox believers live in hope for the restoration of justice and the rule of law in the country. He firmly believes that all those committing these acts of lawlessness today will be held accountable. He called on each officer to make the right choice and leave the grounds of the seized church.

As reported by the UOJ, on May 6, 2025, St. Andrew’s Church of the UOC in Cherkasy was seized with the involvement of government officials and police. According to a statement by Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv, the clergy and parishioners tried to defend the shrine peacefully and lawfully but were denied their rights. Law enforcement officers simply forced them out of their own sanctuary.

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