Metropolitan Arseniy of Ukrainian Orthodox Church Faces Continued Imprisonment
Information and Education Department of UOC – OCP News Service – 16/08/2024
Kyiv – Ukraine: Metropolitan Arseniy of Sviatohirsk, a prominent figure in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, has had his detention extended for another 60 days. The decision was made by the Sloviansk City District Court on August 15, 2024.
Metropolitan Arseniy, the vicar of the Sviatohirska Lavra, has been in custody in Dnipro Prison since June 21, 2024. He was arrested on charges that remain undisclosed.
The court’s decision came despite strong pleas for his release from both the defense and the prosecution. The defense offered to release the metropolitan on bail and the personal guarantee of nine people’s deputies. Even the prosecutor, Oleksandr Lutsenko, argued for his release on bail.
However, Judge Tetiana Haustova ruled in favor of continued detention, citing concerns about potential witness tampering. The metropolitan vehemently denied these allegations, emphasizing his commitment to serving the Sviatohirska Lavra.
The Lavra, a significant religious site in Ukraine, has been a center of humanitarian aid and spiritual support. Its continued operation is seen as crucial for many Ukrainians, especially in the war-torn regions.
The decision to keep Metropolitan Arseniy in custody has sparked widespread concern among religious leaders, human rights activists, and the general public. Many view it as a violation of religious freedom and a setback for efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Metropolitan Arseniy of Ukrainian Orthodox Church Arrested on Treason Charges
Source:
OCP News Service
