
Russians killed at least 70 clergy members in Ukraine since 2014
Russian forces abduct, torture, and kill clergy in Ukraine — over 70 religious figures murdered since 2014
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal reported during a meeting with the Secretary-General of the European Evangelical Alliance, Jan Wessels.
“I spoke about Russia’s crimes against churchgoers in temporarily occupied territories. Since 2014, Russian occupiers have killed at least 70 clergy members,” the Prime Minister said.
Shmyhal emphasized that Russia is attempting to destroy freedom of conscience, persecuting Protestant communities and banning the activities of independent religious organizations.
“Ukraine fights for freedom — both spiritual and national. I thanked Mr. Wessels for his support of the Ukrainian people, for continuous prayers and solidarity,” Shmyhal wrote.
The parties also discussed humanitarian initiatives, including a demining program.
“This is important so that liberated territories become safe again for life, community restoration, and ministry,” the Prime Minister stressed.
- In March 2020, in Crimea, occupying Russian authorities sentenced a Jehovah’s Witness participant to six years in prison — Jehovah’s Witnesses are banned in Russia. At that time, Human Rights Watch accused Russia of persecuting members of this religion.
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