The Estonian government plans to ban churches and parishes with ties to the Moscow Patriarchate.

Estonian Minister of the Interior Lauri Läänemets submitted to the government a bill proposing to ban the activities of churches and parishes linked to organizations supporting Russian aggression.

During a speech in the Estonian parliament (Riigikogu), the minister noted that changes are necessary because the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (EOC MP) has not taken significant measures to comply with state requirements.

«I propose to the government to amend the law on churches and congregations to eliminate any relations between religious associations in Estonia and foreign organizations that, for example, threaten public order or the constitution of Estonia, support military aggression, incite war, or promote violence», – emphasized Läänemets.

He also noted that «today, the Moscow Patriarchate – is a tool of Russian influence used not only to oppress its own people but also to manipulate believers in other countries».

In this regard, according to the minister, Estonia cannot allow the Estonian Orthodox Church to remain under the control of the Moscow Patriarchate.

Recall, in Estonia, Riigikogu deputies initiated a bill to deprive citizens of third countries, as well as persons without specific citizenship, of the right to vote in local elections.

By the way, the Estonian authorities are considering the possibility of establishing a new effective means of counteracting possible threats from Russia. This involves buoys with blades along the water border with Russia.

It became known earlier that Estonia is considering the possibility of purchasing Ukrainian defense products. However, due to martial law in Ukraine, there is a ban on export.