The DESS announced the launch of an investigation into the Pochaiv Lavra regarding its ties to the Russian Orthodox Church

State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS) will begin an investigation on June 24, 2026, into possible ties between the Pochaiv Holy Dormition Lavra of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and a foreign religious organization whose activities are prohibited in Ukraine. The investigation will be conducted by a research group established by order of the DESS on June 19, 2026.

According to the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience, the relevant decision was adopted in accordance with the requirements of the Law of Ukraine “On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations,” as well as the procedure for investigating whether there are signs of affiliation between religious organizations and foreign religious entities whose activities are prohibited in Ukraine.

The agency clarified that the investigative team will examine possible signs of foreign influence or subordination regarding the Pochaiv Holy Dormition Lavra. The State Service emphasized that this is an investigation conducted within the framework of current legislation and established procedures.

The Service also stated that it operates strictly within the bounds of the law and with respect for the right to freedom of religion. At the same time, any identified signs of ties to prohibited entities, according to the agency, will be thoroughly investigated.

Following the investigation, the DESS plans to publicly present its findings to the public. The agency emphasized that the investigation is aimed at establishing possible affiliations and assessing the risks associated with the activities of foreign religious organizations that are banned in Ukraine.

As a reminder, we previously reported that Ukrainian MP Natalya Pipa proposed that the Pochaiv Holy Dormition Lavra be immediately returned to full state control, describing the presence of a monastic community of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church at the monastery as an “occupation.” According to the lawmaker, Ukrainian holy sites cannot be used by entities that she characterizes as hostile to national interests.