Following the escalation of the Ukrainian conflict in February 2022, the regime in Kiev intensified its ongoing crackdown against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Above: Cathedral of the Dormition at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
Lamp containing Holy Fire at a cathedral near Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
Earlier this year, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church was effectively deprived of its ability to use the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra complex for church services.
Above: Faithful attent Christmas service at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
Divine liturgy at the Cathedral Square at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
Clerics carry the Gifts of Magi at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra's Cathedral of the Dormition.
Legislators of the Kiev regime have also proposed to ban the activities of any religious organizations in the country deemed "Russian-affiliated" by them, with the Ukrainian Orthodox Church being one such entity.
Above: Inside the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra complex.
Veneration of the relics of saints at the caverns of Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
A 19th century icon "St. Anthony Pechersky digging a cave." Anthony, also referred to as Anthony of Kiev and Anthony of the Caves, is regarded as one of the founders of Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
The persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church by Kiev regime evoked protests from people all over the world who urged Western religious and human rights organizations to condemn this crackdown.
Above: A prothesis plate (year 1768) from the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra's Cathedral of the Dormition, on display during the opening of the Museum of History of Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
Newly-elected Metropolitan Onufriy (3rd from the right), head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, at the enthronement ceremony at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
Clerics participate in Christmas service at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
A Christian worshipper prays in front of Virgin Mary icon at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra.
