DESS Stated That the Pochaiv Lavra Is “Affiliated” with the Russian Orthodox Church

The State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS) officially announced the completion of an investigation that revealed signs of “affiliation” the Pochaiv Holy Dormition Lavra with the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC). The relevant findings were published on July 22, 2026.

According to the DESS statement, the key basis for these conclusions was the Pochaiv Lavra’s inclusion within the structure of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). Officials justify their position by noting that this religious organization had previously been recognized by the agency as affiliated with a foreign religious center. In particular, the State Service of Religious Affairs points to provisions in the Pochaiv Lavra’s charter that confirm its subordination to the Kyiv Metropolis of the UOC.

In addition, agency representatives cite provisions of the Russian Orthodox Church’s charter, asserting that the document allegedly provides for the participation of the abbot of the Pochaiv Lavra in the governing bodies of the Russian Orthodox Church. The investigation, which formed the basis for these conclusions, was conducted in accordance with current legislation on freedom of conscience and the protection of the constitutional order. However, as the source notes, the published report does not include the official position of representatives of the Pochaiv Lavra itself or the Ukrainian Orthodox Church regarding the allegations made.

As a reminder, the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS) has officially recognized the men’s monastery “Holy Intercession Goloseevskaya Hermitage” of the Kyiv Metropolis of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church as affiliated with a foreign religious organization whose activities are prohibited on the territory of Ukraine.