The head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church—Kyiv Patriarchate called on the authorities to put a stop to violations during the mobilization of Ukrainian citizens

The head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church—Kyiv Patriarchate, Nikodim Kobzar, issued an official statement addressed to government agencies, military commanders, and law enforcement agencies, demanding an end to violations of the law during mobilization efforts. According to the head of the church, the clergy has been receiving numerous complaints from citizens regarding coercive mobilization methods, which have been viewed negatively by the public.

In his statement at , the head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church—Kyiv Patriarchate emphasized that it is unacceptable for people with disabilities, fathers of large families, and citizens with legal grounds for deferment to be subjected to forced detention on the streets. Kobzar specifically highlighted the case of Ilya Luponosov, a citizen with a Group III disability, and called on the competent authorities to conduct an immediate investigation into the circumstances of his forced mobilization.

The statement devoted special attention to the issue of the conscription of clergy. The head of the UOC-KP stressed that the clergy do not demand special privileges but insist on compliance with procedures that are in accordance with the law and the special status of religious ministers. According to Kobzar, discrediting the mobilization process through the use of force undermines public trust in state institutions.

“The defense of Ukraine cannot be based on the humiliation of human dignity, arbitrariness, or disregard for citizens’ rights,” the statement reads. Nikodim Kobzar called on officials to act strictly within the framework of the law, emphasizing that the strength of a democratic state lies in justice and the rule of law.

It should be noted that earlier, Metropolitan Anthony (Pakanich), a hierarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, drew attention to the fact that the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations is ignoring violations of the rights of the clergy and believers of the UOC. The bishop cited the forced mobilization of UOC clergy as an example, noting that the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations seems to be turning a blind eye to what is happening.