"Despicable provocation": Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) commented on the incident in the Czech Republic

The hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev), has categorically rejected all accusations of transporting banned substances on the territory of the Czech Republic, saying that the action against him was planned. Having returned to Russia, the bishop has already taken part in a joint divine service with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia.

According to the Greek news agency Romfea.gr, the Metropolitan was detained by Czech police on May 24, 2026, after a search of his car, in which drugs were allegedly found. In a commentary for the RIA Novosti news agency, the Russian hierarch emphasized: “The drugs were planted in my car intentionally. Those who ordered and carried out this dastardly provocation against me will be found and brought to justice.”

According to the details of the route of return, after his release, Vladyka left the Czech Republic by car accompanied by Russian diplomats and arrived in Hungary. From Budapest, he flew to Istanbul, from where he headed to Moscow. “After leaving the Czech Republic, I reached Hungary accompanied by diplomats, and from there I flew to Moscow via Istanbul,” the publication quoted the Metropolitan as saying.

On the Day of Pentecost, Metropolitan Hilarion served Patriarch Kirill in the Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra. It is reported that in the coming days their official meeting is planned, at which the hierarch will inform the head of the Russian Orthodox Church about the details of what happened in Prague.