“Would Jesus Go to War?”: Russian Preacher Faces Prison for Questioning Ukraine Conflict

Eduard Charov, a Christian preacher in Russia, now stands on the brink of prison for a question he posed online: “Would Jesus Christ have gone to kill in Ukraine?”

This question, loaded with spiritual and political implications, has led to charges of discrediting the Russian armed forces. Charov, who founded the non-denominational Christian Monastery of Mercy, could face years behind bars.

Charov’s faith, deeply rooted in Orthodox and Pentecostal traditions, led him to speak out against the war. But now, he’s been silenced in his homeland. Banned from leaving his district and forbidden to use a phone or the Internet, Charov is trapped, waiting for what seems like an inevitable sentence.

“Most likely, it will all end with a prison term for me,” he said, resigned yet unbroken. His wife, Inna, will continue their work with the homeless while he prepares for the possibility of prison. “You should not fear the judgment of people, but of God,” Inna stated, reflecting the deep convictions driving their actions.

Charov isn’t alone in his plight. In occupied Ukraine, a Christian woman faces up to ten years in prison for remarks made during a prayer meeting. The persecution echoes Soviet-era repression, where religious voices critical of the state are brutally silenced.

Release International, a Christian advocacy group, is sounding the alarm on these escalating attacks. “Churches are being closed, forced to re-register, and then the re-registration is denied. Churches are being raided,” said Andrew Boyd of Release International. The situation is dire, with utilities cut off to churches and pastors harassed or worse.

Charov’s story is one of many highlighting a dangerous trend in Russia and occupied Ukraine. Christians who dare to speak out, questioning the morality of war, are now facing legal battles, prison, and worse. The international community is urged to take notice as the environment grows increasingly hostile for those who choose faith over fear.