Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Denis Monastyrsky met with OCU Primates Metropolitan Epiphany and Metropolitan Onufry of the UOC
During the meeting of the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs with the leaders of the two largest Orthodox denominations of Ukraine, the constructive relations between the church and the state and the need to ensure interfaith peace and order were discussed.
Separately, the parties discussed in detail public security measures during the traditional mass actions on July 27-28, dedicated to the state holiday - the Day of Baptism of Kyiv Rus-Ukraine. According to the Decree of the President of Ukraine, it is celebrated annually on July 28 on the day of the memory of the equal-apostolic Prince Vladimir. This year marks the 1033rd anniversary of this momentous event.
Denis Monastyrsky assured the leaders of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church that the Ministry of Internal Affairs during numerous mass events in the coming days and on the territories of religious buildings and outside them is ready to rigidly but legally counteract all possible provocations, has sufficient forces and means and duty ensure public order and the safety of all citizens regardless of their religious affiliation. The head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs called on the heads of the OCU and the UOC to be careful and special responsibility during the organization and conduct of all religious ceremonies with the mass participation of believers, expressed hope for cooperation in this and constructive dialogue in the future.
Department of Communications of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine
Photo by Andriy Novitsky and Mykola Anatsky
