Russia has summoned the Czech ambassador to Moscow to protest the arrest of a Russian Orthodox cleric in Prague on drug charges, officials said Wednesday. The move marks a new low in already strained relations between the two countries.
The cleric, identified as Father Alexei, was detained last week after Czech police allegedly found narcotics in his possession. Russia's foreign ministry expressed outrage, calling the arrest a provocation and demanding his immediate release. The Czech Republic has defended its actions, stating that the arrest was conducted according to law.
This incident adds to a series of diplomatic disputes between Moscow and Prague, including expulsions of diplomats and disputes over historical narratives. Analysts warn that the situation could further deteriorate bilateral ties, which have been tense since the Czech Republic expelled Russian intelligence officers in 2021.
The Russian Orthodox Church has also condemned the arrest, claiming it is part of a broader campaign against Orthodox Christians in Europe. Meanwhile, Czech authorities have not commented on the specifics of the case, citing an ongoing investigation.
Observers note that the timing of the arrest, amid heightened geopolitical tensions over Ukraine, may exacerbate the rift. Both nations have been urged to resolve the matter through diplomatic channels to avoid further escalation.
