Russia is not ashamed to use anything as a tool in its propaganda machine, with religion not being an exception. The Russian Orthodox Church (ROC or the Moscow Patriarchate) is known to be affiliated with Russian secret services and is often used in the Kremlin’s hybrid warfare schemes. Throughout the war, there have been countless proofs of Moscow Patriarchate’s involvement with the Russian military and government, with several cases of ROC collaborating with the Russian army, spying, and passing intelligence on Ukrainian soldiers movement.
Due to the obvious involvement with the Kremlin, the Russian Orthodox Church is now banned in Ukraine, which Russia took as an opportunity to accuse Ukrainians of “oppressing Orthodox Christians”. While a law that bans the Russian Orthodox Church might seem like a step too far from one perspective, especially to religious leaders, it is important to point out that the Moscow Patriarchate has little to do with spiritual guidance or the common concept of religion, and is, in fact, another hybrid warfare tool that Russia uses to fuel discord and support the war.
How you can help Ukraine against Russian aggression:
Come back alive – https://bit.ly/3Ct6O2L (works directly with the command and personnel of military units, purchasing infrared thermal imaging cameras, night vision goggles, hemostatics etc);
UNITED 24 – https://bit.ly/3M2mXiT (launched by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the main venue for collecting charitable donations in support of Ukraine. Funds will be transferred to the official accounts of the National Bank of Ukraine and allocated by assigned ministries to cover the most pressing needs)
Army SOS – https://bit.ly/3UYK168 (manages purchases of necessary ammunition, shields, intercommunication and reconnaissance facilities, etc. and delivers all goods directly);
Vostok SOS – https://bit.ly/3Ruut75 (raising funds for various needs of the army).