The Security Service of Ukraine has exposed the leadership of the Russian Orthodox Church on the creation of its own private military companies in Russia. On the instructions of the Moscow Patriarchate, their PMCs are engaged in recruiting and training mercenaries for the war against Ukraine, SBU reported via Telegram.
It has been documented that one of these private military companies, St. Andrew's Cross, operates on the basis of the Kronstadt Naval Cathedral in St. Petersburg. Within the walls of the religious institution, its representatives recruit parishioners for further inclusion in the Russian occupation groups involved in the frontline.
When selecting potential "candidates", preference is given to men who have already served in the ranks of the aggressor country's military units and have combat "experience". Once mercenaries are enrolled in the ranks of the Moscow Church PMC, they undergo military tactical and firearms training under the guidance of instructors from the Russian special services.
To disguise combat training, their organisers train "recruits" exclusively within the walls of the cathedral and at special training grounds in Russia.
It has been established that such PMCs are financed by representatives of the aggressor country's financial and industrial groups close to the Kremlin leader. The money goes to the accounts of the Russian Orthodox Church in the form of charitable contributions and donations for the "construction" of churches.
Based on the documented facts, the SBU is taking comprehensive measures to establish all the circumstances of the exposed crimes and bring the perpetrators to justice.