Judge during hearing on UOJ journalist's case: "We all feel bad"

Valeriy Stupnitsky in court. Photo: UOJ

During the hearing on July 30, 2024, in the Solomensky District Court regarding the case of UOJ journalist Valeriy Stupnitsky, the journalist's defense attorney filed a motion to recuse the judge due to alleged bias.

The defense attorney justified his motion and took a seat. The judge then asked him, "Are you okay, Mr. Defense Attorney?" After the attorney stood up, the judge continued, "You just sat down and bowed your head; it was unclear to me…". When the defense attorney responded, "I feel downhearted, Your Honor," the judge replied, "We all feel bad" He then added, "If your physical condition is normal, then everything is fine."

The judge stated that the motion for his recusal would be forwarded for review and then adjourned the hearing.

🙏 You can support the defense of Orthodox journalists through the following details:

Card number: 5375 4112 1927 4706

🔗 Link to the bank.

As reported by UOJ, the defense attorney explained why it is inappropriate to charge UOJ journalists with treason.

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.