UOC-MP Calls for End to Violence and Restoration of Dialogue

The administrator of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP) Metropolitan Anthony (Pakanych) issued an appeal in connection with the conflict in Kyiv. He called for an end to the confrontation and for prayer.

“From the very beginning of the political crisis and throughout the entire conflict period the Ukrainian Orthodox Church has repeatedly called for an end to violence and peaceful solution to the conflict. Unfortunately, the voice of the church has not been heard. On February 18 on the streets of Kyiv violent confrontation, bloodshed, and killing of people resumed. At this moment we hear disturbing reports of new clashes on the Maidan,” Metropolitan Anthony said in a comment.

“In this difficult time we once again strongly condemn bloodshed and call for it to stop! Immediately stop the violence and resume the dialogue!

“Our country is now for the third month on the verge of a national disaster. Now everyone, the authorities and the opposition and each of us, must recognize our responsibility before God for our actions. The threat of civil war and economic collapse in Ukraine is, unfortunately, more and more real.”