Orthodox Church of Ukraine

The Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) is a self-governing Orthodox Christian denomination that emerged in Ukraine following a long-standing dispute with the Russian Orthodox Church. The OCU was formed as a result of a movement led by Metropolitan Filaret, who sought greater autonomy for Ukrainian Orthodoxy within the Moscow Patriarchate. In recent years, the church has gained significant attention due to its involvement in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Recently, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a truce for Orthodox Easter, marking a rare moment of calm in the region. The OCU's leadership, led by Metropolitan Epiphanius I, has played a key role in facilitating this agreement. The church's independence and its stance on the conflict have made it a significant player in Ukrainian politics and international relations. As Ukraine continues to navigate its relationship with Russia, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine remains a crucial factor in shaping the country's spiritual and political landscape.