Ukrainian delegation in the U.S. to discuss the UOC and freedom of religion

Yuliia Svyrydenko. Photo: Ministry of Economy

On June 3, 2025, a delegation of Ukrainian officials led by Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yuliia Svyrydenko and Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak arrived in Washington for an official visit. The news was shared by Yermak on his Telegram channel.

According to Yermak, the delegation’s agenda covers a broad range of issues – from defense support and sanctions policy to humanitarian topics. Particular attention will be given to matters concerning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) and religious freedom amid the ideological confrontation with Russia.

"We will also discuss Russian propaganda related to church issues. There will be many meetings with representatives from both parties who support Ukraine," said the Head of the Presidential Office.

In addition, the delegation plans to discuss the creation of an Investment Fund for Ukraine’s recovery and the repatriation of Ukrainian children deported by Russia.

The topic of religious freedom and the impermissibility of discrimination against believers on the basis of religion has already been raised in Washington. Human rights advocates and representatives of religious organizations in the U.S. have repeatedly voiced concern over the situation surrounding the UOC.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Young Republicans of the United States had published an investigation into the persecution of the UOC.

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