The Security Service of Ukraine is running a counter-intelligence (security) operation on the territory of the Holy Dormition Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in Kyiv.
This was reported by the SBU press service.
These measures are being undertaken jointly with the National Police and National Guard within the framework of the SBU’s work to counter the subversive activities of the Russian intelligence agencies in Ukraine.
This is being done taking into account the ongoing armed aggression on the part of Russia threats of act of terror, sabotage, and hostage-taking situations, especially at the venues where large crowds gather.
Therefore, these measures are carried out for:
▪️preventing the use of the Lavra as a “Russian world” hub;
▪️verifying data on the use of UOC premises for covertly hosting sabotage and reconnaissance groups or foreign citizens, and as weapons caches, etc.; and
▪️ ensuring the population against provocations and terrorist acts.
With the direct participation of church officials, law enforcement officers:
▪️ are inspecting the territory and premises of the Lavra to locate any proscribed items or material;
▪️ ID’ing those present at the Lavra premises and vetting them as to their involvement in illegal activities to the detriment of Ukraine’s state sovereignty.
All actions are being undertaken within the framework of current legislation, the agency says.
“We emphasize that in its activities, the SBU adheres to the principle of impartiality towards any religious denomination and respects the right of every citizen to freedom of worldview and religion, as defined by the Constitution of Ukraine,” the statement concludes.
