DESS to begin checking Kyiv Metropolis of UOC for ties with RF on May 20
Head of DESS Viktor Yelensky. Photo: ukrinform
On May 17, 2025, the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS) reported on its Facebook page the start of inspections regarding the presence of signs of affiliation of the Kyiv Metropolis of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) with a foreign religious organization whose activities are banned in Ukraine. The State Service stated that the investigation will begin on May 20.
The basis for conducting such inspections is the approved resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 543 dated May 9, 2025.
Paragraph 8 of this resolution describes the procedure for conducting an investigation regarding the presence of signs of affiliation of a religious organization with a foreign religious organization whose activities are banned in Ukraine.
As reported by the UOJ, according to resolution No. 543, the State Service is empowered to conduct investigations of religious organizations both on its own initiative and upon requests from government authorities, local self-government, citizen associations, and other individuals.
Read also
U.S. Congresswoman: Persecution of Christians under Zelensky cannot be ignored
Anna Paulina Luna stated that state repression against freedom of religion in Ukraine requires a response from the USA.
U.S. politician: Millions of UOC believers simply wish to worship in peace
Catherine Whiteford stated that the protection of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church is a matter of human dignity.
In Yahilnytsia, Catholics given ancient church for free use
In the Ternopil region, the authorities handed over the church to the RCC community.
Shariy releases video about UOC defenders in America
The blogger called it "shameful" that Orthodox Christians in the USA have to ask the American authorities to protect believers in Ukraine.
UOC Chancellor and Lavra abbot celebrate Liturgy at St Barbara's Church of Kyiv
The patronal feast was celebrated at St. Barbara's Church in the capital.
Poland thwarts terrorist attack by Islamist supporter
The suspect was allegedly planning an attack on a Christmas market in support of the Islamic State.