“This Is a Disgrace for the Ukrainian Authorities,” – Robert Amsterdam on the Events Around the UOC Cathedral in Chernivtsi

International human rights lawyer Robert Amsterdam, who represents the interests of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, made a public statement regarding the events at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Chernivtsi. His remarks were published in a video released on June 18, 2025, as reported by the Pershyi Kozatskyi Telegram channel.

Amsterdam stated that the incident in Chernivtsi involved violence against UOC clergy and parishioners. He emphasized that these actions were carried out by security forces and supporters of the OCU.

“Christians are being beaten, tortured, held hostage. You will witness violence against believers who are guilty only of their faith in Christ. Christians are being hunted,” the lawyer said in his address.

The video material provided by the human rights advocate shows footage of confrontations in which both clergy and laypeople were harmed. Amsterdam condemned such actions:

“This is unacceptable in the 21st century. It is a disgrace for the Ukrainian authorities. It is appalling that this is happening. Every member of the government — from Mr. Zelensky down — should bow their head in shame,” he stated.

It is also worth noting that Robert Amsterdam, head of the international human rights firm Amsterdam & Partners LLP and legal representative of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, has become the subject of several criminal cases in Ukraine due to his defense of the UOC. He is accused of cooperating with former MP Vadym Novynskyi and “destabilizing the religious situation” in the country.