Stop of the religious group's activities in Russia
In Russia, security forces have halted the activities of the religious group 'School of One Principle', which prayed for the health of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the protection of Ukraine's territories from the Russian army. The organization had around 70 participants and was founded in Ukraine.
Group members were prohibited from discussing their activities with priests. They used terms that indicate their stance on the conflict:
- they referred to the occupiers as 'orcs and vatniks',
- and Ukrainian soldiers – as 'bright forces'.
Additionally, the religious group encouraged prayers 'for the protection of Russians from mobilization'.
The Russian police are investigating the 'spreading of obviously false information'. Such activities in Russia are punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years. Additionally, in Mariupol, a performance 'Little Red Flower' is planned to be shown in the drama theater building at the end of December, although these events are not related to the activities of the closed religious group.
Control over religious organizations
This situation highlights the increasing control of Russian authorities over religious and civic organizations that express dissent from the official position regarding the war in Ukraine. The closure of the 'School of One Principle' may indicate the Kremlin's desire to suppress any forms of protest or support for Ukraine, as such groups can become platforms for expressing alternative views.
This also reflects the general trend of repression against dissenters in Russia amid rising political tension.