A large clash broke out in the center of Chernivtsi between supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate) and the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, resulting in injuries to five people and significant tension on the city streets
The incident occurred near the Holy Spirit Cathedral, which has long been one of the key spiritual and historical landmarks in Chernivtsi, and has kept the local population in a state of alert for several hours. According to information received from a Ukrinform correspondent at the scene, the conflict erupted late in the morning when supporters of different church bodies began active actions that escalated into a mass scuffle. Witnesses report that some participants of the conflict, dissatisfied or confused over church matters, blocked the central city street — Hlavna — thereby creating a traffic jam and hindering public transport movement. Police officials were present at the scene, immediately undertaking measures to stabilize the situation and ensure public safety. According to the press service of the Main Department of the National Police of Chernivtsi Region, law enforcement is actively working to resolve the conflict, conducting explanatory talks with the participants, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the law and peacefully resolving disputes within the legal framework. At the same time, police urge citizens to remain calm and avoid provoking further escalation. To provide medical assistance to the injured, two emergency vehicles were dispatched to Cathedral Street near the cathedral. Medical professionals reported that five individuals, mostly with bruises and injuries sustained during the clash, have sought help. Some of the injured require urgent medical procedures, with some suffering from cuts, bruises, and minor injuries. Despite this, all injured persons are currently being examined and provided with necessary care. The situation in the city remains tense, and the events around the Holy Spirit Cathedral highlight ongoing issues related to church affiliation and social tension, indirectly affecting the mental climate of the city. It is expected that in the coming hours, local authorities and law enforcement will undertake additional measures to stabilize the situation, emphasizing adherence to law and order and preventing new conflicts. Local residents express their concern regarding safety and call for dialogue and mutual understanding among different communities. At the same time, the situation in Chernivtsi further underscores anxieties about the potential development of church and social conflicts in the region. Authorities promise to continue increasing oversight and actively working to prevent similar incidents to ensure peace and civic harmony in the city.