Toronto orthodox priest criticized for accepting medal from Putin
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress said it was disgraceful that Father Vladimir Malchenko shook hands with Putin two days after Russia bombed a school in Ukraine, killing 55.
A Toronto priest, Father Vladimir Malchenko, has come under fire for accepting a medal from Russian President Vladimir Putin last week. This comes as Putin's war in Ukraine has claimed thousands of civilian lives. On November 4, Putin presented Malchenko with the Order of Friendship during a ceremony at the Kremlin. The video of the event shows Malchenko greeting Putin, who pins the Russian state honor onto the priest's vestments.
Putin praised Malchenko for helping Canadian parishioners maintain their connection to their historical homeland. Malchenko's acceptance speech praised the "Fatherland." Putin also spoke highly of Russian troops, claiming they are "bravely" fighting in Ukraine. Malchenko told Global News he had no regrets about accepting the medal, stating it was an act of recognition for their pastoral duties in Canada.
However, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress condemned Malchenko's actions, calling it "disgraceful" that the priest honored Putin while he continues to wage war on Ukraine. The Order of Friendship is awarded for "outstanding contributions to strengthening friendship and fostering peace and friendly relations among countries." Past recipients include pro-Russia actor Steven Seagal and former prime minister Jean Chretien.
Canada has placed Putin on its Russia sanctions list following Russia's 2022 assault on Kyiv, citing his "grave breach of international peace and security." Malchenko's Toronto church is linked to Russian online platforms that promote the claim that Ukraine is an "imaginary country" and Ukrainians are "imaginary" people, in line with Russian propaganda justifying Putin's military campaign.
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