Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed the devastating toll of Russia’s invasion on Ukraine’s churches.

In an interview with CBN, the Ukrainian leader reported that Russian forces had killed 50 priests and destroyed approximately 700 churches since the full-scale invasion began.

The 46-year-old highlighted the brutality faced by Ukrainian clergy, describing how many were captured, tortured or killed for refusing to align with the Russian Orthodox Church under Patriarch Kirill.

“Priests are meant to serve people and God,” he stated, condemning the violence inflicted on those who resisted Russian demands.

He also highlighted the systematic targeting of churches, which have been bombed, burned, or attacked with missiles wherever Russian troops advanced.

The destruction extends beyond churches.

As of late October 2024, the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications reported that over 2,100 cultural infrastructure facilities across Ukraine have been damaged or destroyed due to Russia’s aggression. This includes schools, libraries, and heritage sites, further underscoring the broad impact of the war on Ukraine’s cultural and spiritual identity.

Zelensky’s remarks come amid widespread support among Ukrainians for establishing a unified Orthodox Church independent of Moscow. Over 60% of Ukrainians favor such a move, reflecting their desire to preserve national sovereignty and religious independence amid the ongoing conflict.

The United Nations has consistently emphasized the need for peace in Ukraine while condemning the ongoing war as a violation of international law and the UN Charter.

Russian forces accuse Ukrainian religious leaders, particularly those not aligned with the Russian Orthodox Church under Patriarch Kirill, of aiding the Ukrainian government or intelligence agencies. These accusations often include unverified claims of harboring weapons or organizing resistance against Russian occupation.