US: We expect Ukraine's actions against the UOC to meet international norms

Employees of the SBU in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Photo: Reuters

On December 5, 2022, John Kirby, strategic communications coordinator for the National Security Council at the White House, said that the United States is monitoring the situation around the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and expects that the Ukrainian authorities, imposing sanctions on priests of the UOC, who are considered involved in Russian aggression, act within international law. It is reported by voanews.com.

“Of course, we are watching the development of the situation around the UOC and the sanctions of Ukraine against members of this Church who have taken steps in support of Russian military aggression. President Zelenskyy recalled the principles of religious freedom, and we expect Ukraine's actions to be consistent with international law that protects freedom of religion or belief,” Kirby said.

The NSS head also recalled that the United States remains unwavering in its support for Ukraine when it needs protection "from Russia, from Russian aggression inside the country and, of course, from criminal influence."

As the UOJ wrote, Zelenskyy’s office provided a list of UOC priests against whom Ukraine imposed sanctions.

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