Ukrainian Parliament Moves to Ban Russian-Linked Orthodox Church

New legislation targets religious organizations with ties to Russia, raising concerns about religious freedom.

The Ukrainian Parliament passed a bill allowing the government to ban the Ukrainian Orthodox Church due to its historical ties to the Russian Orthodox Church.
President Zelenskyy is expected to sign the law, which has broad support among Ukrainians but faces international scrutiny.
The law empowers a government office to scrutinize and potentially halt religious organizations with connections to Russia.
Critics argue the legislation could impose collective punishments and compromise religious freedom.
Surveys indicate strong public support for state intervention in the activities of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.