Kathrine Frich
Concerns within Russia’s security structures have resurfaced after authorities disclosed the arrest of a former cleric in southern Russia.
The case has revived older disputes surrounding his past activities and alleged foreign ties.
State media reports suggest investigators had monitored the situation quietly before presenting the accusations publicly.
Early suspicions
According to EFE, quoting Russian state outlets, the Federal Security Service detained the priest on claims that he gathered parishioners, including Cossacks, for a group fighting against Russian forces in Ukraine.
Footage released by TASS shows the man saying:
“I was arrested by FSB agents for participating in the terrorist organization Russian Volunteer Corps. I regret my actions and admit my guilt.”
Officials have not released his name.
Past allegations return
EFE reported that the cleric had been expelled from the Novorossiisk diocese around ten years ago amid suspicions that he attempted to recruit members of the Krasnodar Cossack community for espionage and sabotage benefiting Ukraine.
Agerpres, citing EFE, noted that the FSB believes he renewed cooperation with Ukrainian services at the end of 2023.
Local outlet Kuban24 quoted the agency saying he searched for pro-Ukrainian parishioners to join operations “in the interests of the Ukrainian armed forces.”
Expanding inquiry
Investigators have opened a criminal case for participation in a terrorist organization.
Authorities are also examining suspected links to a separatist-leaning movement connected to the historic Kuban region, an area shaped by long-standing migration between Russian and Ukrainian communities.
Officials say this aspect of the investigation remains in its early stages.
Russian media report that additional suspects have not been ruled out as the case develops.
Sources: Digi24, EFE, TASS, Kuban24, Agerpres.
