Pope Francis Criticizes Ukraine’s Ban on Russian-linked Orthodox Church
Pope Francis has voiced concerns over Ukraine’s recent move to ban the Russian-linked Orthodox Church, warning that the legislation could impinge on religious freedoms. The pope’s comments came a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the controversial law into effect.
The Ukrainian parliament approved the ban last week amid rising tensions with the Russian Orthodox Church, which has supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Zelensky signed the law on Ukraine’s Independence Day, further underscoring the country’s effort to distance itself from Moscow.
In his weekly prayers, Pope Francis urged caution, stating, “Do not touch churches,” and expressing fear for the liberty of worshippers affected by the new legislation. He emphasized his continued sorrow over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
Despite the Ukrainian Orthodox Church’s formal split from the Moscow patriarchy in 2022, Ukrainian authorities have accused its clergy of maintaining loyalty to Russia. The ban marks a significant step in Ukraine’s efforts to assert its independence and limit Russian influence.
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