Portnikov: UOC clergy do not believe in Ukraine, but wait for Russia

Ukrainian publicist and commentator Vitaliy Portnikov believes that among the priests of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, sentiments that are in line with Russian propaganda are allegedly widespread. In his speech, he suggested that representatives of the UOC clergy expect Ukraine’s defeat and consider Putin to be the future determinant of church policy on its territory. He expressed this opinion in a recent broadcast.

“Russia will win anyway. Ukraine has a year or two left. It will be finished off under current political conditions,” he quoted supposed remarks from UOC representatives. Portnikov claimed that the Church regards Russian President Vladimir Putin as the “real leader” of the region, while Ukraine’s government is seen as temporary and lacking a future.

According to the journalist, UOC clergy allegedly believe that Putin will ultimately decide which Church will be “dominant and respected” in Ukraine, regardless of the official state position.

“Every new shelling of Ukrainian land convinces them not that the Russians are criminals, but that they are winning,” Portnikov added, referring to the supposed general mindset of UOC faithful.

Earlier, clergy of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church issued a public statement refuting what they called false claims being spread by supporters of the OCU. They emphasized that UOC clergy and believers pray and work for the good of Ukraine on an equal basis with others, and that accusing them of treason is a lie.