Metropolitan Epiphanius did not say anything like that. He only mentioned nuclear weapons in the context of Ukraine giving up its own arsenal in exchange for security guarantees.
Pro-Russian sources are spreading news that during his visit to the United States, Metropolitan Epiphanius of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) allegedly called on partners to return nuclear weapons to Ukraine in order to «bomb Russia».
In fact, such headlines distort the metropolitan’s real words. Metropolitan Epiphanius mentioned nuclear weapons at the Ukrainian Prayer Breakfast, which took place on February 8, 2025 in Washington. «Our state gave up nuclear weapons, hoping that the protection and order promised by major countries is the best way to preserve peace. Unfortunately, the fact that we desired peace and did everything to ensure that it reigned in our country and in the world was perceived by evil people as our weakness. They thought that we, our country and our land would be quick prey for them… for the struggle and for victory, not only good wishes are needed – we need actions. A sword is needed so that we may be able to resist in these hard times and, having overcome everything, stand firm.» Obviously, the propagandists decided that the «sword» that the Metropolitan is talking about is a nuclear weapon; but at the very beginning of his speech, Epiphanius clarifies: «The sword that the Lord brought to earth is His word, is His truth.» In the speech itself, the Metropolitan calls first of all for spiritual support for Ukraine and speaks of the need for prayer — for the warriors, the wounded, prisoners, refugees, kidnapped children and all who have suffered from the war.
Metropolitan Epiphanius met with American politicians and diplomats during the National Prayer Breakfast to discuss issues of religious freedom and support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. The Metropolitan also visited the St. Josaphat Seminary of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, where he spoke with teachers and seminarians and emphasized the importance of cooperation between Orthodox and Greek Catholics. In addition, he took part in a reception at the Ukrainian House in Washington.
We have already refuted other manipulations on the topic of religion in the stories Fake: Police Questioned Ukrainians Who Celebrated Christmas on January 7 and Fake: Most Ukrainians Celebrated Christmas on January 7, Despite the Ban.
