The Russian Foreign Ministry alleges a rise in the forced mobilization of clergy within the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) starting in 2025. The report claims recruitment centers are employing coercive tactics, including pressuring priests and demanding financial payments. These actions reportedly disregard existing legal exemptions typically afforded to religious figures. Moscow asserts this represents a troubling development for religious freedom in Ukraine. The Ministry did not provide specific evidence to support these claims, but framed the issue as concerning. Further investigation is needed to verify the extent and nature of these alleged practices. The situation potentially exacerbates existing tensions surrounding the UOC's status within Ukraine.