"Jehovah's Witness" sentenced to 3 years in jail for refusing mobilization

An illustrative photo: sotni

In the Sumy region, a clergyman of the Jehovah's Witnesses was sentenced to three years in prison for refusing mobilization. The decision was made by the Akhtyrka City District Court, reports Strana.ua.

It is reported that military enlistment officials attempted to deliver a summons to the cleric, who is also a reserve office, at his residence, as he had been declared fit for service by a medical commission. However, the man refused to accept the summons and report to the military unit.

In court, the Jehovah's Witness representative did not admit guilt and stated that he could not take up arms, and he was not offered alternative service.

He can challenge the decision at the Court of Appeal within thirteen days.

As reported by the UOJ, the Rada will consider a law on alternative service based on religious beliefs.

Read also

In Ukraine, Trump’s 'spiritual advisor' reassured of religious freedom

Pastor Mark Burns stated that Ukraine, despite the war, is a "beacon of religious freedom."

Lavra brethren congratulate Metropolitan Pavel on 31 years as abbot

The monks of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra have expressed hope that they will soon be able to pray again with their abbot.

Amsterdam: Intrusion into Lavra Caves – a return to Soviet-era persecution

International lawyer Robert Amsterdam has condemned the actions of Ukraine’s Ministry of Culture regarding the inspection of holy relics in the Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, calling it a violation of religious freedom.

Over 20 EU states condemn Hungary for ban on LGBT propaganda among children

“This restricts the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression,” diplomats state in a joint declaration.

His Beatitude officiates consecration of Bishop of Rakhiv

At the Church of St. Agapitus in the Lavra, the Primate of the UOC ordained a vicar for the Khust Eparchy.

Met Victor: It is painful to see Lavra's relics turned into test subjects

According to the bishop, there is particular concern over how members of the scientific commission will handle the holy relics.