During church raid in Chernivtsi, police threw ruling bishop to the ground
Metropolitan Meletiy on the ground during the seizure of the cathedral. Photo: UOJ
On June 17, 2025, during the seizure of the Holy Spirit Cathedral of the UOC in Chernivtsi, police used force against Metropolitan Meletiy of Chernivtsi. This is confirmed by video footage obtained by the Union of Orthodox Journalists.
In the video, the hierarch is seen lying on the ground surrounded by police officers, while parishioners rush to assist him.
“They threw the Vladyka down, they beat him,” one of the faithful says, pointing to an officer in a balaclava who is trying to retreat.
Several people struggle to lift the Metropolitan from the ground and give him water. The balaclava is torn off the officer’s head.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that during the assault, police sprayed Metropolitan Meletiy with tear gas. The faithful who were nearby laid him on a bench and rendered first aid.
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