Maxim Ostapenko to Appeal His Dismissal as Head of the National Reserve “Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra”

Former Director General of the National Reserve “Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra,” Maxim Ostapenko, has announced his intention to challenge his dismissal in court. He considers the Ministry of Culture’s decision unlawful and degrading to the principles of the legal system. This was reported by the Ukrainian online outlet Fakty.

After learning of his dismissal, Ostapenko sought legal advice. According to him, the Ministry of Culture’s actions do not conform to proper labor practices:

“What has happened and how it has happened is a complete mockery of normal employer–employee relations. I will challenge this in court,” Ostapenko said.

The former head of the Lavra accuses Vladimir Shornikov, Director of the Department for the Protection and Preservation of Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture, of abusing his authority. Ostapenko claims that Shornikov personally delivered the dismissal order under highly unusual circumstances: at around 8:00 p.m. that same day, he called Ostapenko and asked for an urgent meeting. They met in a parking lot.

“Out on the street, at dusk, he began spreading the documents across the car’s hood, informing me of my dismissal without giving me a chance to review the materials, submit explanations, or raise objections. What’s more, his deputy started filming without my consent. What they’re doing is a throwback to the 1990s,” Ostapenko stated.

He emphasized that he views these actions as serious violations of his labor rights and intends to seek justice in court.

Recall that on May 21, 2025, Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications head Mykola Tochytskyi signed the decree dismissing Maxim Ostapenko from his role as Director General of the National Reserve “Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.” According to Ostapenko, he was given no prior notice and no reasons were provided.