The SSU has collected evidence of anti-Ukrainian activities of the rector of a church and a priest of a monastery in Khust diocese of moscow patriarchate’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Zakarpattia.

Both clergymen were ideological supporters of the communist regime and spread propaganda of the former USSR.

According to the investigation, the suspects disseminated banned communist symbols and soviet slogans via the Internet.

The SSU documented the perpetrators publishing hostile content on their social media pages.

SSU-initiated examinations confirmed the clerics’ criminal activity.

During the searches of their homes, the SSU found computer equipment and mobile phones used to propagate kremlin narratives.

Based on the evidence, both church servants were notified of suspicion under Article 436-1.1 of the CCU (dissemination of communist symbols and propaganda of communist totalitarian regime).

The court is to decide on a measure of restraint.

The investigation is ongoing. The suspects face up to 5 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The operation was carried out by the SSU Office in Zakarpattia region jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.