Metropolitan Feodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv, who was urgently hospitalized earlier this week, remains in critical condition, according to the Cherkasy Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). Despite intensive treatment, the condition of the prominent church leader continues to worsen, and doctors are conducting comprehensive diagnostic tests, including investigations for potential toxic substances.

The 65-year-old archbishop, who has been at the center of a criminal case for the past two years, had been vocal in his criticism of church seizures by supporters of schismatic groups. His declining health has recently been a topic of discussion in court hearings related to the charges against him.

Initial signs of Feodosiy’s illness emerged about a month ago, when he began experiencing severe fluctuations in blood pressure and persistent high fever, symptoms that were inconsistent with his prior diagnoses. Due to his deteriorating condition, the archbishop had to cancel several religious services.

Subsequent tests revealed alarming abnormalities in various health indicators, prompting doctors to urgently hospitalize him. Sources within the Union of Orthodox Journalists suggest that poisoning by heavy metals may be a potential cause of his health issues, although this remains unconfirmed by official sources. The diocese reported that the condition of his internal organs is continuing to deteriorate and has called on the faithful to intensify their prayers for his recovery.

In a statement to the media, Vahktang Kipshidze, the deputy head of the Moscow Patriarchate’s Synodal Department for Church and Society Relations, expressed support for the theory of poisoning, saying that the possibility should be taken seriously.

Metropolitan Feodosiy has faced increasing legal pressure in recent years. In 2023, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) charged him with inciting interfaith conflict and denying Russian military aggression in Ukraine. Feodosiy has repeatedly claimed that the charges against him were fabricated, linked to complaints from clergy he had excommunicated for immoral behavior or support for schism. In February 2024, the SBU added a second charge of religious discrimination.

Despite his legal troubles, Feodosiy’s influence in the Orthodox Church remains strong. On March 18, 2025, a Ukrainian court released him from house arrest, allowing him to attend court proceedings but imposing travel restrictions. On October 30, the Cherkasy court extended his restrictions for another two months.

The ongoing investigation and the rapid decline in his health have drawn considerable attention both in Ukraine and the broader Orthodox world. As the situation continues to unfold, the diocese has urged believers to remain steadfast in prayer for their spiritual leader’s recovery.