Court dismisses Metropolitan Luke’s lawsuit against Cherkasy mayor
Photo: Prydniprovsky District Court of Cherkasy / monitor-info
The Prydniprovsky District Court of Cherkasy has dismissed the lawsuit filed by Metropolitan Luke of Zaporizhzhia and Melitopol against the Mayor of Cherkasy, Anatoliy Bondarenko, and the local TV channel "VIKKA," concerning the protection of his rights, honor, and dignity, according to dzvin.media.
The hierarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church had demanded a retraction of false information aired on "VIKKA" during the program "Relevant Conversation" in December 2024. In that broadcast, Mayor Bondarenko claimed that the Metropolitan of Zaporizhzhia was "working for the enemy."
Metropolitan Luke had also sought symbolic moral compensation of one hryvnia from each defendant.
The court's decision has not yet entered into legal force and may be challenged in an appellate court.
As previously reported by the UOJ, the mayor of Cherkasy and the editorial staff of the TV channel deny any wrongdoing.
Read also
State Film Agency bans Ukrainian film "Prayer for Hetman Mazepa"
The film by renowned director Yuriy Illienko about Mazepa was banned due to the participation of an actor from the Russian Federation.
US state to introduce criminal liability for refusing to break confessional seal
The bill in Arizona could see priests facing felony charges if they fail to break the seal of confession after learning of child abuse during the sacrament.
Synod of Cyprus sets conditions for lifting Met. Tychikos' suspension
The Cypriot Synod linked the possible return of the hierarch to service with a number of requirements, including a written confession of faith and a refusal to appeal to a secular court.
Congresswoman takes control of possible takeover attempt in Kuzmyn
An American legislator responded to the appeal of UOC parishioners, publishing their video, and promising to seek accountability for attempts to seize churches.
OCU church in Kosmach cancels Christmas services due to calendar disputes
Disagreements over the date of Christmas celebrations in the Pre-Carpathian community have led to the services not taking place either in December or in January
Congresswoman: Zelensky waging war against his people over faith
An American legislator stated that Zelensky's policies have led to the persecution of believers and promised to respond to forceful actions against UOC parishes.