Patriarch Kirill of Moscow congratulated Lukashenko on his so-called “convincing victory” in the presidential election in Belarus. In the address, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church emphasized Lukashenko’s “selfless service” to the Belarusian people, as well as his role in “strengthening the peaceful and prosperous life” of his citizens. However, international observers emphasize the lack of free and fair elections in Belarus, while exiled Belarusians staying in Poland rallied for genuine and fair elections in Belarus.
The elections in Belarus, which took place on January 26, 2025, were seen as a farce. The European Union and the international community have not recognized its results. On Sunday evening, the foreign ministers of the EU member states met with the leader of the Belarusian opposition, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who called for increased isolation of the Lukashenko regime and support for civil society, a Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty correspondent reports.
In this context, the greetings of the Moscow Patriarch appear as support for the illegitimate Lukashenko regime. This raises questions about the role of the Russian Orthodox Church in political processes in the post-Soviet space. The Patriarch not only avoided mentioning repression and human rights violations, but also spoke about the “spiritual and moral state of society” under Lukashenko, which looks like an attempt to legitimize his power and cover up evil.
The address also underscores the close alliance between Russia and Belarus that has become increasingly apparent in recent times. Patriarch Kirill expressed hope for “further cooperation” between the Belarusian state authorities and the Belarusian Orthodox Church. Kirill is accustomed to playing along with dictatorial regimes loyal to the Kremlin.
Lukashenko has been the president of Belarus since 1994, with his rule being repeatedly criticized for authoritarianism, rights abuses, and election fraud. The 2020 elections served as the catalyst for the largest protests in the country’s modern history.
The Russian Orthodox Church has traditionally maintained close ties with the Russian authorities, as well as with Russian allies such as Lukashenko. This supports the thesis that Russian religious institutions are being used for political influence.
Thus, Patriarch Kirill’s greeting not only undermines trust in the ROC as an independent institution, but also highlights the complex political game unfolding against the backdrop of the Belarusian crisis.
