Metropolitan Meletiy injured during seizure of UOC cathedral in Chernivtsi
Tear gas was sprayed into Metropolitan Meletiy’s eyes, leaving him unable to move on his own.
On June 17, 2025, during the violent seizure of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Chernivtsi, Metropolitan Meletiy of Chernivtsi and Bukovyna, the ruling hierarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the region, was injured.
Eyewitnesses report that tear gas was sprayed directly into the eyes of Metropolitan Meletiy, after which he was unable to move on his own. Faithful who were nearby laid him down on a bench and provided assistance.
The assault occurred amid the brutal invasion of the cathedral grounds by radical supporters of the OCU. Earlier reports detailed serious injuries sustained by UOC clergy and noted that the attackers were supported by police forces.
The UOJ had previously reported on the ongoing seizure of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Chernivtsi.
