Metropolitan Theodosy of Cherkasy and Kaniv (Ukrainian Orthodox Church) shared his perspective on a recent attack, the challenging circumstances in Ukraine, and the consequences of ecclesiastical schism in an interview with Romfea.gr. A translated version was published on the Cherkasy Diocese’s website.

The incident occurred on October 17, 2024, during the forcible seizure of the Archangel Michael Cathedral in Cherkasy. According to the Metropolitan, supporters of the "Orthodox Church of Ukraine" (OCU) used clubs, non-lethal weapons, and tear gas against clergy, monks, and laypeople. Metropolitan Theodosy suffered a concussion, and he believes that his monastic klobuk saved him from a fatal injury.

"The events at the cathedral shocked us all," said the Metropolitan. "What horrifies us most is the malice and hatred that accompanied the violence. It was yet another ruthless assault by the OCU against our Church."
The Metropolitan described the persecution faced by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), which he says is orchestrated with state support. Churches are being seized, believers harassed, and clergy subjected to violence and arrests.

"The situation is reminiscent of the persecutions during Soviet times," he noted. "Persecutors do not hesitate to destroy churches and oppress believers, even in workplaces and schools."
Discussing the root of the conflict, the Metropolitan identified the granting of autocephaly to the OCU as a source of immense harm:

"The Tomos brought not peace but tears, grief, and suffering to Ukraine. It created a monster dressed in ecclesiastical robes but dedicated to destroying our Church," he declared.
He appealed to the Primates of the Local Orthodox Churches to address the situation in Ukraine. He proposed temporarily suspending the OCU’s Tomos to reduce tensions and prevent further schisms in global Orthodoxy.

Metropolitan Theodosy revealed that Ukrainian authorities have filed five criminal cases against him. He has been under house arrest for the past two years.

"I am accused because I defend the Ukrainian Church, but I trust that the Lord allows this trial for the benefit of my soul," he concluded.