Violence Surrounding the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Kamianets-Podilskyi is Under Scrutiny
An incident at the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in the Khmelnytsky region resulted in injuries that required hospital treatment for a parishioner. Reports from DEA News indicate that the assailants forced the UOC congregation to the ground, after which medical personnel treated the wounded for what was described as a possible hip fracture. The event has drawn attention from observers and local authorities alike, with questions emerging about the response of security services during the incident.
Officials from the Old Ukrainian Orthodox Church issued a statement about a renewed attempt to forcibly seize the cathedral in Kamianets-Podilskyi. Eyewitness accounts describe a tense scene, where police appeared slow to intervene. While the cathedral continued holding a liturgy, many believers gathered outside to pray, lining the streets near the church as the situation unfolded. Additional notes indicated that dissidents connected to the UOC used social media to call for further confrontations and spread unverified information. There were also reports that parishioners were being pressured with subpoenas during the turmoil.
In the previous day, supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church engaged with the cathedral’s exterior in Kamianets-Podilskyi. Accounts from local observers claimed that radicals urged the transfer of the temple from the UOC to the OCU. Some footage released by the Union of Orthodox Journalists purportedly showed protesters using gas against participants. There were claims that subpoenas were distributed to young attendees who joined the crowd, though independent verification of these claims remained limited at the time of reporting.
Across the region, observers stressed the fragility of peace during religious gatherings and the risk posed by continuing clashes over church affiliation. Community leaders urged restraint and emphasized the importance of safeguarding places of worship as venues for reflection and prayer. The evolving situation prompted discussions about church governance, civil order, and the protection of worshippers who seek to practice their faith without intimidation. Authorities have reiterated commitments to investigate the events and ensure that all parties observe the rights of worshippers and the rule of law. The broader context involves ongoing tensions between different Orthodox jurisdictions and the ways in which social media can amplify inflammatory calls to action. Despite the turmoil, many parishioners chose to remain in prayer, asserting their right to assemble and worship without fear. The reporting continues as new information becomes available and officials assess the implications for regional stability and religious freedom.