The Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate is still under Russian jurisdiction, even after its name change and charter amendments. It continues to be led by Metropolitan Evgeny from Russia.
This is stated in the annual report of the Estonian Security Service (Kaitsepolitseiamet), according to Espreso.
In 2025, the church changed its name; the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate became the Estonian Christian Orthodox Church. Modifications were also made to its charter to create the appearance of independence from the patriarch, as noted by intelligence reports. The patriarch continues to use Christian rhetoric to justify Russia’s war against Ukraine.
It has been reported that the Church is led by Metropolitan Evgeny, a Russian. His residence permit in Estonia was not renewed due to security concerns, prompting him to leave the country.
The report states, “Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and its interference in the elections in Moldova clearly demonstrate how religion in Russia has become a tool of the executive branch.”
Estonian intelligence concludes that despite the Church's efforts to present itself as independent and autonomous, its activities are, in fact, still controlled by the Russian Orthodox Church.