The SSU is conducting counterintelligence (security) measures on the territory of the Holy Dormition Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in Kyiv.

These steps are carried out jointly with the National Police and the National Guard in the framework of the SSU’s systemic efforts to counter subversive activities of russian special services in Ukraine.

In particular, given russia’s armed aggression, there is a growing risk of terrorist attacks, sabotage, hostage-taking, especially in crowded areas.

Therefore, these measures are carried out to:

• prevent use of the Lavra as a center of the ‘russian world’;
• check the information on the use of premises of Ukrainian Orthodox Church for hiding sabotage and reconnaissance groups, foreign citizens, storing weapons, etc;
• protect the population from provocations and terrorist acts.

With the direct participation of church representatives, law enforcement officers are:

• inspecting the territory and premises of the monastery to detect items prohibited for circulation;
• checking persons in the Lavra territory with regard to their involvement in unlawful activities to the detriment of Ukraine’s state sovereignty.

All actions are carried out in accordance with the law. We emphasize that in its activities the SSU adheres to the principle of impartiality to any religious denomination and respects the right of every citizen to freedom of worldview and religion, as defined by the Constitution of Ukraine.