Attempted Forced Mobilization of UOC Clergy Reported in Izium

A disturbing incident has been reported in the city of Izium, Kharkiv region, suggesting a possible attempt at the forced mobilization of clergy from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). The information was shared by the youth organization “Odigitria”.

According to eyewitnesses, the city’s main cathedral was surrounded by representatives of the Territorial Recruitment Center (TRC). Numerous individuals in military uniforms were present at the scene. They reportedly recorded personal data of priests exiting the church, photographed their documents, and asked questions likely related to their exemption from military service.

There have also been reports of initial clashes between parishioners and TRC representatives. In one case, women who were nearby physically pulled a priest away from the military personnel. The conflict began with a verbal altercation between the clergyman and a TRC officer, escalating into an attempt to forcibly detain the priest. Thanks to the decisive actions of the faithful, the conflict was stopped, although the situation remains tense.

Earlier, it was reported that the Lviv Regional Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Center (TRC & SSC) stated that under martial law in Ukraine, no alternative (non-military) service is provided — even for citizens whose religious beliefs prohibit the use of weapons.