During the Search at Korets Monastery, Security Forces Recommended Changing Jurisdiction — But Not to the OCU

Once again, the Korets Holy Trinity Convent came under inspection by the Security Service of Ukraine, accompanied by around 30 armed members of the National Guard. However, according to eyewitnesses, this visit differed noticeably from previous ones. Details were reported by the channel Pershyi Kozatskyi.

An eyewitness stated that law enforcement officers behaved politely, calmly, and respectfully. After checking documents and reviewing mobile phones and devices, all equipment was returned on site, unlike in previous searches when items — such as a computer — were confiscated and never returned.

As usual, the library was inspected. Several books were taken “for examination,” and the officers inquired whether any weapons were stored on the premises. During the search, there were also calm conversations, in which SSU representatives subtly suggested the monastery consider changing its jurisdiction. Notably, they did not recommend joining the OCU, which they understood would likely provoke resistance. Instead, they mentioned other local Orthodox churches, such as the Ecumenical Patriarchate or the Polish Church.

It is known that the Korets Monastery is the only stavropegial monastery of the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine, formally subordinated directly to the Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church. Notably, among the suggested options for changing jurisdiction, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church itself was mentioned — the very Church that the official authorities are simultaneously attempting to ban.

After the search, the security forces left the monastery grounds, taking one male worker to the military recruitment office. It was later clarified that the man is the father of four children and therefore not subject to forced mobilization under current law.

As a reminder, on June 24, 2025, the Security Service of Ukraine conducted searches at the Korets Holy Trinity Convent in Rivne Region.