Finnish Orthodox Leader in Ongoing Talks with Security Agency Over Perceived Russian Threats
Finnish Abp. Elia says the Ukraine war has split his Church and prompted ongoing cooperation with national security services to guard against suspected Russian influence.
HELSINKI — Abp. Elia, Primate of the Finnish Orthodox Church under the Ecumenical Patriarchate, said in a recent interview that he has maintained continuous communication with Finland’s Security and Intelligence Service (SUPO) since the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine. He described the discussions as relating to “Russian attempts at influence” and broader geopolitical tensions but declined to provide specific details.
The archbishop noted that the conflict has created significant divisions within the Church, affecting both clergy and laypeople. He said the strain is felt most acutely among parishioners of Russian origin, many of whom were unsettled by the Finnish Church leadership’s pro-Ukraine stance. The tensions, he added, extend into church institutions, where differing views on the war have caused internal friction.
Abp. Elia warned that any departure from the hierarchy’s official position could create vulnerabilities. “We Finns are often too trusting,” he said, urging vigilance against potential influence efforts.
Previously, UOJ reported on Abp. Elias's opposition to the U.S. peace proposal for Ukraine.
