New statement from the Russian Orthodox Church: "the OCU was created by overseas officials to divide the peoples of Russia and Ukraine"

This is reported by the official website of the Russian Orthodox Church in a message titled: "Deputy Chairman of the DECR spoke about splits as a tool of geopolitics."

Speaking about the Orthodox Church of Ukraine at the round table, Archbishop Leonid pointed out that this is "a political project aimed at weakening the Russian Orthodox Church, dismembering world Orthodoxy, and further dividing the peoples of Russia and Ukraine."

Regarding the role of the Russian Orthodox Church itself in the geopolitical context, let us recall the words of Georgian expert Leyla Dzhedzhelava. She stated that for more than a decade, the Russian Orthodox Church has used the topic of Abkhazia and Ossetia as bait for the Georgian church, pushing through profitable decisions for itself. Now the question is: if Georgians recognize the OCU, they may lose Abkhazia and Ossetia.

"Such blackmail, which has nothing to do with the canons, exists. Although the Russian Orthodox Church has no right to recognize anyone without an Ecumenical Patriarch. This is his prerogative." When asked whether chaplains from the Russian Armed Forces are encouraged to serve in places where Russian troops are stationed, including Abkhazia and South Ossetia, the expert added:

"Unfortunately, the Georgian Orthodox Church cannot yet provide spiritual care to the flock in the occupied territories. The Russian Orthodox Church is indeed present there, but I can't say how they deal with the flock. But I am sure that they also promote anti-Georgian sentiments."