TRC officers release UOC priest detained in Kovel

Archpriest Vitaliy Popko. Photo: Volodymyr-Volynsky Eparchy

On October 17, 2025, the priest with many children from the Kovel Сhurch of the Pochaiv Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos in Volyn, Archpriest Vitaliy Popko, who was illegally detained by Lutsk TRC officers the day before, returned to his family. This was reported by the press service of the Volodymyr-Volynskyi Eparchy.

The eparchy notes that the clergyman was released thanks to the wide publicity in the media and social networks, as well as the prayers of the faithful.

Father Vitaliy sincerely thanks everyone who prayed and worried for him. The eparchial press service notes that the truth prevailed, and the good priest and father of children will continue to pray for the people of Ukraine, spiritually care for the soldiers, and raise his four minor children.

As reported by the UOJ, Archpriest Vitaliy Popko was detained by Lutsk TRC officers on October 16 near his own home.

Read also

In Spain, 25-year-old girl undergoes euthanasia

Despite the father's attempts through the courts to prevent his daughter's suicide, Spanish doctors helped her die at the age of 25.

Pope congratulates new female Archbishop of England on taking office

Pope Leo XIV sent a congratulatory letter to Sarah Mallally following her installation.

Metropolitan Theodosiy reports on religious genocide in Ukraine at UN

The ruling bishop of the Cherkasy Eparchy informed international human rights defenders about violations of believers' rights and persecution of the UOC.

Vatican allows transplanting animal organs to Catholics

The RCC presented new recommendations on xenotransplantation.

Ministry of Justice proposes to legalize same-sex unions, NGO reports

The agency called on deputies to reconsider the definition of family, citing a Supreme Court decision and obligations to the European Union.

Kyiv St Sofia Cathedral being used to film ads for incense products – media

For a fixed fee, one of Kyiv’s most ancient shrines can be rented out for commercial shoots of highly questionable content.