TRC abducts vice-rector of Sumy Theological Seminary

Archimandrite Antoniy, who was taken by the TRC. Photo: Sumy Eparchy

On July 19, 2026, representatives of the Territorial Recruitment Center detained Archimandrite Antoniy Bondarenko, vice-rector of the Sumy Theological Seminary, in Odesa, after which all contact with him was lost, the Sumy Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church reports.

According to the eparchy, the clergyman was rushed through a military medical examination and then taken to a military unit in Vinnytsia Region. His phone was confiscated, leaving his relatives and those close to him unable to learn about his condition or whereabouts.

The eparchy also drew attention to the cleric’s health. It said Archimandrite Antoniy suffers from serious spinal injuries but was allegedly not given an opportunity to present all of his medical records for consideration during the examination. The statement further stressed that, under Church canons, his status as a monk and priest precludes participation in armed hostilities.

The Sumy Eparchy called for an end to what it described as violations of Archimandrite Antoniy’s legal rights, an impartial review of his case, an opportunity for him to undergo a full military medical examination, and the restoration of contact with his family and Church superiors. Clergy and believers were also asked to intensify their prayers for the priest.

As the UOJ previously reported, the TRC earlier detained two priests in the Sarny Eparchy. Amid similar reports, the mobilization of UOC clergy and respect for their rights during TRC actions remain among the most widely discussed issues in Church circles.

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