A representative of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church—Kyiv Patriarchate expressed support for Metropolitan Agafangel of Odessa following the scandal involving Viktoria Kokhanovskaya

Nikon Grabliuk, head of the Odessa Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church–Kyiv Patriarchate (UOC-KP), issued a statement expressing his support for Metropolitan Agafangel, head of the Odessa Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), following the scandal involving Viktoria Kokhanovskaya. The author of the statement called for unity, mutual respect, and an end to rhetoric that stokes animosity between religious denominations.

In his message to the clergy and the faithful, Nikon Grabliuk emphasized that Metropolitan Agathangelos had demonstrated unwavering loyalty to his flock during the region’s most difficult times. According to a representative of the Kyiv Patriarchate, the metropolitan’s prayers for peace in Odessa and Ukraine have become an important source of spiritual support for many people.

The statement placed particular emphasis on the need to overcome interchurch conflicts. Nikon emphasized that any criticism must remain within the bounds of Christian love and dignity, noting that believers are called to be peacemakers, not “sowers of discord.” The address concludes with wishes for strength for Metropolitan Agathangelos and an expression of hope for the future reconciliation of all Orthodox Christians in the country.