State ethnic policymakers will check the Pochaiv Lavra for ties to the Russian Orthodox Church
The State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience will check the possible connections of the Pochaiv Holy Assumption Lavra with the Russian Orthodox Church, the activity of which is prohibited in Ukraine. The research group will begin work on June 24.
The DESS reported that the relevant decision was made by order No. H-106/11 dated June 19, 2026. The check will be carried out in accordance with the Law of Ukraine “On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations” and the procedure for investigating signs of affiliation of religious organizations with foreign religious structures, the activity of which is prohibited in Ukraine.
“The corresponding decision was made by order of the DESS dated June 19, 2026 No. H-106/11 in compliance with the requirements of the Law of Ukraine “On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations” and the Procedure for conducting a study on the presence of signs of affiliation of religious organizations with foreign religious organizations whose activities are prohibited in Ukraine”, — the DESS noted.
The service emphasized that they will act within the framework of current legislation and with respect for freedom of religion. At the same time, all possible signs of foreign influence or subordination to prohibited structures must be investigated.
After the completion of the inspection, its results are promised to be made public. Previously, the DESS has already announced the detection of signs of affiliation with the Russian Orthodox Church in certain religious organizations, in particular the Kyiv Metropolis of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
The inspection of the Pochaiv Lavra will become part of the state procedure for assessing possible connections of religious organizations with foreign structures prohibited in Ukraine.
