The Kremlin is actively using the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) as a tool of hybrid influence on the African continent, according to Andrii Yusov, a representative of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate.
The Ukrainian intelligence agency reported this on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.
Yusov said that under the guise of a “spiritual mission,” the ROC is building pro-Russian networks to promote Kremlin-friendly narratives.
One of the key instruments of this influence is the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa — an organization established by the ROC in December 2021 in response to the recognition of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine by Patriarch Theodore of Alexandria.
Following this, the ROC initiated the “transfer” of clergy in several African countries under Moscow’s jurisdiction, presenting it as a move to “protect the Church from schism.”
In response, the Orthodox Church of Alexandria officially condemned Russia’s actions as an incursion into its canonical territory.
Yusov noted that the ROC is actively building churches in Africa and launching educational initiatives aimed at fostering local trust in Moscow’s narratives.
“The aggressor state is exporting not only weapons to Africa, but also its version of ‘Orthodoxy.’ The Church is being used as a tool to exert influence and undermine legitimate ecclesiastical structures. This is yet another element of Russia’s hybrid expansion,” Yusov said.
Ukraine’s intelligence service earlier stated that Russia was increasing its presence in Africa through educational and youth programs designed as long-term instruments of influence.
Source: Kremlin actively using Russian Orthodox Church as tool of hybrid influence in Africa – intel
