Metropolitan Isaac (Barakat), the head of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of Germany and Central Europe, has publicly expressed solidarity with Metropolitan Arseny of Svyatogorsk, who remains under arrest in Ukraine. In a statement released through church outlets in Germany and the Middle East, Metropolitan Isaac conveyed deep sorrow over the situation and praised his fellow hierarch as “a true shepherd and servant of Christ.”

“With profound pain, I follow the fate of Metropolitan Arseny, my brother in episcopal ministry, who has served his people for many years with love, humility, and self-sacrifice,” Metropolitan Isaac said in his message, published by the press office of the Antiochian Archdiocese in Germany and Central Europe. “His life, especially during the difficult times of war, is a shining example of genuine pastoral love. He remained beside his people, comforting the suffering and aiding those in need.”

The Antiochian hierarch stated that he prays for Metropolitan Arseny’s spiritual and physical strength and called upon the faithful worldwide to join in prayer for his swift release and for peace in Ukraine.

“May the Lord shed His light on this dark situation and grant everyone the courage to stand for truth and for the love of Christ,” Metropolitan Isaac added.

On November 3, 2025, the Central District Court of Dnipro ordered that Metropolitan Arseny be held in custody for 60 days on charges of “justifying Russian aggression.” This marks his second arrest in recent weeks — he had been released on bail on October 23 but was immediately detained again by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU).

Despite a decline in his health, Metropolitan Arseny has reportedly been denied hospitalization. Witnesses noted that he lost consciousness several times during court proceedings, which nevertheless continued. Addressing his supporters, the metropolitan stated that he did not regard the court’s decision as a defeat.

“We have not lost,” he said. “We have remained with God and with a clear conscience — and that is our true victory.”

According to the court’s ruling, Metropolitan Arseny will remain in detention until at least December 10, 2025. Appeals for his release under supervision and requests for medical care have so far been rejected.

The case has drawn international concern and growing attention from Orthodox communities worldwide, many of whom continue to pray for Metropolitan Arseny’s health, courage, and eventual freedom.