The SSU has completed counterintelligence (security) measures at the facilities of the moscow patriarchate’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Kherson, Kirovohrad, Dnipropetrovsk and Rivne regions.

Libraries with pro-kremlin literature, propaganda leaflets of political parties banned in Ukraine and russian symbols were found on the territory of the churches.

As a result of the investigation, the secretary of Kirovohrad diocese was notified of suspicion of committing an offence under the Article 161.1 of the CCU (violation of equality of citizens based on their racial, national, regional affiliation and religious beliefs).

Former warehouses with property of russian occupation groups were found on the territory of St. John of Kronstadt Church in Kherson region.

It was established that the invaders had arranged the warehouses with the assistance of the rector of the church, archpriest Anatoliy Kornev. He established contact with the leadership of the occupation administration and was directly communicating with the FSB.

During Kherson’s liberation, the cleric fled with his russian handlers to the left bank of the Dnipro.

As a result of searches in the Mezhyrich Holy Trinity Monastery in Rivne region, the SSU found propaganda material of a civil association headed by Viktor Medvedchuk, suspected of high treason.

In Dnipropetrovsk region, the SSU prevented an attempt to transport pro-kremlin literature from the local diocese. The law enforcement stopped the car, which was leaving the church territory. The vehicle was carrying brochures of the banned Opposition Platform – For Life party and other anti-Ukrainian materials.

Currently, all found evidence has been sent for expert examination. Further procedural actions will be taken basing its results.

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.

The security measures were conducted by the SSU Offices in Kherson, Kirovohrad, Rivne and Dnipropetrovsk regions.