"Persecution of Russian Orthodox Priests for Promoting Peace in Ukraine"

Russian Orthodox priests who publicly support peace in Ukraine are facing persecution from both the state and the church. The Russian Orthodox Church, under the leadership of Patriarch Kirill, demands total conformity and loyalty, punishing priests who refuse to read the patriarch's prayer for victory in the conflict. Publicly praying or calling for peace can also lead to prosecution by the Russian state, which has passed legislation allowing for the prosecution of those who "discredit the Russian army." Only a small fraction of the 40,000 clergymen in the Russian Orthodox Church have spoken out against the war, with over 30 priests facing pressure and punishment for their stance. The priests who refuse to support the war can be reassigned, relieved of their duties, or defrocked. However, some priests have appealed to the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, who has restored their holy rank and allowed them to serve in his churches.