Lobbying Battle Over Orthodox Church in Ukraine

A intense lobbying battle is unfolding in Washington D.C. over the future of the Orthodox Church in Ukraine. Lobbyists hired by allies of the Russian Orthodox patriarch are campaigning against Ukraine's efforts to create an independent church, while Ukrainian institutions and evangelical leaders are pushing back with their own lobbying efforts.

The conflict intensified after Ukraine passed a law banning religious organizations with ties to Russia. This legislation could potentially shut down the Ukrainian branch of the Orthodox Church connected to Moscow (UOC-MP). Ukrainian officials claim some UOC clergymen have assisted Russia during the invasion, while the church denies these allegations.

The debate centers on the UOC's historical ties to Moscow versus Ukraine's desire for an independent church. Both sides are actively lobbying U.S. lawmakers and attempting to influence public opinion, with competing narratives about religious freedom and national security.

• Lobbyists hired by Russian Orthodox ally campaign against Ukraine's religious policies.
• Ukraine passes law banning religious organizations with ties to Russia.
• Ukrainian officials claim some UOC clergymen assisted Russia during the invasion.
• Debate centers on UOC's ties to Moscow versus desire for independent Ukrainian church.
• Pro-Ukraine groups counter with testimonies of Russian oppression of non-Orthodox faiths.
• U.S. lawmakers and public opinion influenced by competing lobbying efforts.