In Kremenets, TCC illegally detaining UOC priest
The Rivne Eparchy has reported the illegal detention of the rector of the Trinity Church in the village of Druzhba.
On May 22, 2025, after returning from the service, the rector of the Trinity parish of the UOC in the Radiviliv district, archpriest Vladislav Batiuk, was detained by TCC representatives in Pochaiv. Without explanation, the priest was taken to the military enlistment office of the city of Kremenets, where he is still being held. This was reported by the press service of the Rivne Eparchy of the UOC.
According to eyewitnesses, Father Vladislav was handed a summons requiring him to appear at the TCC by 11:00 PM that same day. Despite the fact that the priest provided official documents confirming his service as the rector of the UOC church, they were not taken into account.
"It is especially concerning that Father Vladislav is a refugee from the occupied territory. Together with his family, he has long been living in the Rivne region, leading an active church life, helping the faithful, and carrying out his pastoral ministry. His wife, matushka, is deeply worried about the situation. She is currently reaching out to lawyers and seeking support," the statement says.
The press service of the eparchy emphasizes that according to the norms of international humanitarian law and religious practice, clergy are not subject to conscription and cannot be forced to bear arms. The forced detention of the priest and disregard for his status and constitutional rights are a direct violation of freedom of conscience and religion.
The Rivne Eparchy is asking to spread information about what is happening and to support archpriest Vladislav with prayers.
As reported earlier by the UOJ, violence was used against deacon of the Kyiv Eparchy of the UOC Andriy Batsula, who was abducted by the TCC.
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