Ukraine's Ban on Moscow-Linked Church Sparks Controversy

Kyiv's new law banning the Orthodox Church has ignited anger in Russia, highlighting deep religious and political divisions.

The Ukrainian government has passed a law banning the Russian Orthodox Church, accusing it of spreading pro-Russian propaganda and espionage.
The Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), associated with Moscow, is under scrutiny and may face a shutdown as part of the new legislation.
Russia and its Orthodox clergy have condemned the move as an attack on religious freedom, likening it to Soviet-era persecution.
The independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine, separate from Moscow since 2014, has gained popularity amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
Polls indicate a significant portion of Ukrainians distrust the UOC, with legal and political battles expected to unfold over the law's implementation.