Outside Russia, the Russian Orthodox Church has found itself in a highly difficult position because it supports the destruction of the Ukrainian people, while the Western world has condemned that stance.

This was stated in an interview with LF by Priit Rohtmets, Associate Professor at the University of Tartu.

According to the scholar, this means that the information channels, communications, and forms of interaction between Russia and the Russian Orthodox Church’s communities abroad have changed significantly.

He also emphasized that the current war is being fought to preserve Russia as an empire.

“At the same time, another reality must also be acknowledged. The current war is being fought to preserve Russia as an empire and, with it, its imperial historical and cultural narrative.

During the war, this interpretation of history has become even more intense, and the Russian Orthodox Church is fully involved in promoting it. This also takes place beyond Russia’s borders, often even without direct political statements,” Priit Rohtmets said.