Zelensky awards OCU "Metropolitan" Mykhail Zinkevych Order of Merit

Mykhail Zinkevych. Photo: Facebook of the Volyn Eparchy of the OCU

President Volodymyr Zelensky awarded the head of the Volyn Eparchy of the OCU, "Metropolitan" Mykhail Zinkevych, the Order of Merit", I class. The corresponding Decree No. 604/2026 was signed on July 15 on the occasion of Ukrainian Statehood Day, reports president.gov.ua.

On this topic OCU Synod issues reprimand to its bishop for ignoring Tomos regulations

According to the document, Zinkevych was awarded the state honor “for significant contributions to strengthening Ukrainian statehood, courage and selflessness demonstrated in defending Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, a substantial personal contribution to the development of various areas of public life, and the conscientious fulfillment of professional duties.”

By the same decree, UGCC cleric Andriy Bukhvak — director of the organization "Charitable Foundation 'Caritas Zaporizhzhia'" — was awarded the Order of Merit, III class.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Zinkevych said UOC reps should be, if not eliminated, then sent for exchange.

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