UCCRO members tell U.S. ambassador how they protect religious freedom

Meeting of UCCRO members with U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Julie Davis. Photo: Institute for Religious Freedom

On June 5, 2026, members of the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations held an official meeting with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Ukraine, Ambassador Julie Davis, according to the Institute for Religious Freedom.

Religious leaders and diplomats gathered at the Bible House in Kyiv to discuss interconfessional cooperation. Representatives of the denominations said the work of the Council of Churches helps preserve the resilience and unity of the people in the face of external aggression. The participants described the protection of freedom of religion as an urgent priority for the country’s development.

The talks were attended by OCU spokesman Yevstratiy Zoria, senior Pentecostal bishop Anatoliy Kozachok, deputy head of the Baptist Union Pastor Ihor Bandura, and Mufti of Ukraine Ahmed Tamim. Roman Kakaliuk of the UGCC Department for External Relations, as well as representatives of the Ukrainian Bible Society and the Institute for Religious Freedom, also presented their positions.

Ambassador Julie Davis heard reports on the current state of affairs in the religious sphere and outlined possible avenues for further engagement with Ukrainian communities. Religious figures also discussed with representatives of the U.S. Embassy the results of joint efforts to support civil society.

As previously reported by the UOJ, Congresswoman Luna said the mobilization of UOC clergy is illegal. The lawmaker voiced concern over the persecution of UOC clergy and promised to continue fighting for persecuted Christians in Ukraine.

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