Ukrainian President Signs Law Banning Russian Tied Religious Organizations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently signed a law that bans religious organizations tied to Russia from operating in the country. The bill, aimed at organizations with management outside of Ukraine in a country that is at armed aggression with Ukraine, was approved by parliament and signed into law by Zelenskyy. This move is seen as a step towards Ukraine’s spiritual independence and strengthening society.
In addition, Zelenskyy also ratified the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court into Ukrainian law. The statute, established in 1998, is aimed at aligning Ukraine’s Criminal Code with international standards, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict with Russia. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba hailed the ratification as a significant step towards joining the EU.
The ICC had previously issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March 2023, accusing him of war crimes. The actions taken by Zelenskyy reflect Ukraine’s efforts to assert its sovereignty and international standing in the face of Russian aggression.