U.S. Congress probes possible ROCOR ties to Russian intelligence services

A group of American congressmen has initiated a probe into possible links between the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad (ROCOR) and the special services of the Russian Federation. The lawmakers expressed concern about the church’s activities aimed at expanding political influence in the United States, and sent a corresponding appeal to the Attorney General of the country.

As UkrInform reports, the collective letter, initiated by Republican Congressman Joe Wilson, states that the Russian Orthodox Church is actively trying to increase its political influence. A lobbying event planned for Nov. 18 for members of Congress and their staffs is cited as an example. It is also noted that ROC-affiliated lobbyists and clergy are already holding meetings on Capitol Hill.

According to House members, such activity raises «valid concerns.» The letter suggests that the Russian Orthodox Church or other Russian Orthodox jurisdictions «may serve as tools for intelligence gathering or foreign influence operations» in the interests of the Kremlin.

Recall that the European Parliament held hearings on the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church, during which there were accusations against the ROC of hybrid warfare and espionage, as well as calls for the expulsion of its clergy from the EU. At the meeting of the commission «European Shield for Democracy» a heated discussion broke out between supporters of tough measures and deputies who spoke in defense of Orthodoxy.