The village parishioners’ decision to oust their priest reflects a broader push within Ukraine to reduce the influence of an Orthodox church that answers to Moscow.
The security services said they searched for spies and weapons at the Monastery of the Caves in Kyiv. Dozens of priests have been arrested since the war began on charges of aiding Russia.
Around the world, national churches, parishes and even families are reassessing relations with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, who has encouraged Russia’s aggression.