Epiphany Dumenko Discussed the Law Banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church with the German Ambassador

The head of the OCU, Epiphany Dumenko, held a meeting with German Ambassador Boris Ruge, during which he presented his organization’s position on the law restricting the activities of religious organizations affiliated with Russia. Dumenko emphasized that the legislative measures are aimed at protecting national security and are not limited to any single denomination.

During the meeting, the head of the OCU attempted to justify the new provisions of Ukrainian law aimed at restricting religious freedoms. According to him, the restrictions provided for by the law apply to “absolutely any religious organization that has ties to the aggressor state.”

In addition to discussing the legislation, the parties focused on issues related to the OCU’s international integration, including the process of joining the World Council of Churches. The dialogue also covered the work of the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and the implementation of humanitarian projects by the German charity “Johanniter.” Dumenko expressed his gratitude to Germany for its support and briefed the diplomat on the results of his recent working visit to Berlin.

As a reminder, on May 7, 2026, the head of the OCU, Epiphany Dumenko, held a meeting with the command of the “Azov” Corps, during which the parties discussed issues of cooperation and joint actions on the territory of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The main topic of discussion at the residence of the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery was “countering Russian influence through church structures in Ukraine.”