In Photos: Russian Priests Appear on the Frontlines of Ukraine
Under its leader Patriarch Kirill, the Russian Orthodox Church has staunchly supported the invasion of Ukraine.
The Church's backing has coincided with Russian officials' and propagandists' rhetoric that Russia is waging a "holy war" against Western ideology and values by attacking Ukraine.
While many Orthodox priests oppose the war, most have stayed silent to protect their positions — while others have been demoted, left the church or fled the country altogether.
Yet others have gone to great lengths to show their support for the war effort by appearing on the frontlines alongside Russian troops — sometimes with fatal consequences.
Here's a look at some of the Russian priests traveling to the battlefield:
The Church's backing has coincided with Russian officials' and propagandists' rhetoric that Russia is waging a "holy war" against Western ideology and values by attacking Ukraine.
While many Orthodox priests oppose the war, most have stayed silent to protect their positions — while others have been demoted, left the church or fled the country altogether.
Yet others have gone to great lengths to show their support for the war effort by appearing on the frontlines alongside Russian troops — sometimes with fatal consequences.
Here's a look at some of the Russian priests traveling to the battlefield:
A priest splashes holy water on Russian servicemen in the partially occupied Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine.
Alexander Chernykh / Kommersant
Russian servicemen hang a banner depicting a Russian Orthodox icon on a tree in the Luhansk region.
Alexander Chernykh / Kommersant
Russian priests often bless soldiers with holy water before they go into battle.
Alexander Chernykh / Kommersant
Chaplain Sr. Lt. Vasily Zudilov (L), aka "Chernomor," blesses a serviceman after giving a Divine Liturgy service on the front line.
Stanislav Krasilnikov / TASS
Sr. Lt. Zudilov (R) gives confession to personnel serving on the front line.
Stanislav Krasilnikov / TASS
Sr. Lt. Zudilov (R) visits personnel serving on the front line.
Stanislav Krasilnikov / TASS
Sr. Lt. Zudilov (C) talks to servicemen after giving a Divine Liturgy service on the front line.
Stanislav Krasilnikov / TASS
An Orthodox military chaplain visits Western Military District units deployed in Ukraine.
Russian Defense Ministry
An Orthodox military chaplain visits Western Military District units.
Russian Defense Ministry
An Orthodox military chaplain visits Western Military District units.
Russian Defense Ministry
An Orthodox military chaplain visits Western Military District units.
Russian Defense Ministry
