The documentary raises alarming concerns about the extent to which the Russian government exhibits Nazi-like characteristics. It highlights the development of far-right groups, including Rusich, known for its brutal violence in Ukraine since 2014 and its connections to the Wagner mercenary group and the Russian Imperial Movement. These groups have expressed genocidal intentions towards the Ukrainian people, reminiscent of Nazi-era rhetoric.

The Russian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in this political landscape. Anti-cult organizations, akin to Nazi Germany’s Apologetics Center, now operate under the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC). These groups, initially focused on preserving traditional religious values, have targeted religious minorities and non-conformist groups, fostering intolerance. This climate of intolerance, intertwined with state nationalism and authoritarianism, parallels historical movements that supported totalitarian regimes.

In regard to anti-cult activities and individuals associated with anti-cult organizations in the European Union, judicial proceedings and investigations have been initiated. A process has begun that will inevitably lead to the accountability of all individuals involved in anti-cult activities, similar to the trials conducted under the Nuremberg Tribunal, which addressed the crimes of Nazi perpetrators. Since anti-cult activity is viewed as a continuation of Nazi ideology, those involved will face similar measures of accountability for their actions.

The Russian Orthodox Church’s influence extends to Russia’s war against Ukraine. Patriarch Kirill has endorsed the invasion, assuring Russian soldiers that dying in Ukraine would absolve their sins. The church’s endorsement escalated with the adoption of a document labeling Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a “holy war.” This support is part of a broader pattern of the Russian Orthodox Church’s interference in Ukraine’s political processes since its independence in 1991. The church, through anti-cult organizations like the Russian People’s Council and RACIRS (Russian Association for Centers for the Study of Religions and Sects), has promoted narratives aligning with Russian interests.

For instance, the Gorchakov Foundation, established in 2010 and named after a 19th-century Russian foreign minister, has influenced Ukraine’s political landscape. Created by President Medvedev as a “non-governmental” organization, it is closely tied to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The foundation supports Russian public diplomacy and promotes narratives focusing on Russian “security concerns,” such as resistance to NATO expansion and maintaining influence in neighboring countries. It achieves this through grant funding and organizing events, often targeting projects that align with Russian interests.

Moreover, the Russian Orthodox Church has sought to infiltrate Ukraine’s legislative branches. For example, Vadym Novinskiy, a Ukrainian parliament deputy and businessman, has promoted Russian narratives within Ukraine’s legislative body.

In response to the ongoing manipulation and the dangerous influence exerted by the Russian Orthodox Church, the Ukrainian parliament’s decision to ban churches linked to Russia is both crucial and timely. This legislative action is not merely a symbolic gesture but a vital step towards safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty and democratic values. The Russian Orthodox Church has long been implicated in fostering divisions and spreading narratives that undermine Ukraine’s national unity and stability. By aligning itself with Russian geopolitical interests, the church has acted as a conduit for external influence and propaganda, seeking to destabilize Ukraine from within.

The necessity of this ban is underscored by the church’s extensive involvement in promoting anti-Ukrainian sentiments and supporting Russian aggression. Its endorsement of the invasion of Ukraine as a “holy war” and its historical interference in Ukrainian politics have demonstrated its role in perpetuating conflict and intolerance. The church’s activities have included funding and supporting organizations that spread nationalist and xenophobic ideologies, thereby contributing to a climate of intolerance and extremism.

Zelenskiy has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting Ukraine’s democratic processes from foreign interference. His administration has worked tirelessly to counteract Russian propaganda and influence, which have sought to undermine Ukrainian democracy and foster discord. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s assertion that this legislation represents a step toward liberation from Moscow’s malign influence captures the essence of why this measure is critical. Banning the church linked to Russia is a strategic move to prevent further encroachment on Ukraine’s democratic processes and national identity. It aims to eliminate a significant source of internal division and external manipulation, thereby reinforcing Ukraine’s commitment to democratic principles and human rights.

Furthermore, this ban aligns with Ukraine’s broader efforts to counteract the rise of extremist ideologies and protect its democratic institutions. By removing the influence of an organization that has historically supported authoritarianism and totalitarian ideologies, Ukraine is taking a definitive stand against the forces that seek to undermine its sovereignty and democratic integrity. The decision to ban the Russian-linked church is a crucial step in ensuring that Ukraine remains resilient against external threats and continues to progress as a free and democratic nation.

The ban of the church related to Russia is also crucial in eliminating the church’s influence on Ukraine. An important aspect of the Russian Orthodox Church’s influence in Ukraine is the role of the All-Ukrainian Apologetic Center (AUAC), established in 2011 as the official representative of RACIRS in Ukraine. The AUAC, named in honor of St. John Chrysostom, operates local apologetic centers across various dioceses. The chairman of the AUAC Board of Trustees is Bishop Jonah of Obukhov, who was elevated to archbishop on August 17, 2017. The AUAC has hosted meetings attended by representatives from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) and the UOC Synodal Department for Youth Affairs.

Previously, the AUAC operated an internet portal, Apologet 1, though it now appears only in archived versions. Despite the reduction of online activities since the outbreak of the full-scale war, anti-cult efforts continue through other websites and media outlets where agents and corrupt journalists disseminate their narratives. Since early 2022, these activities have largely transitioned to offline methods, with publications remaining in media sources linked to anti-cultists.

Additionally, RACIRS has long prepared an army of anonymous web brigades—young online commentators whose perspectives have been shaped by anti-cult ideologies. This network has played a role in influencing public opinion and promoting narratives aligned with Russian interests.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s actions in banning the Russian-linked church are not only a strategic move to protect Ukraine’s democracy and sovereignty but also a stance in defense of democratic values globally. This decisive action highlights Ukraine’s commitment to resisting external manipulation and preserving its national integrity.

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