Originally recorded in March 2022, this classic Unbelievable? takes us back to the early days of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. As the world grappled with the shock of war, this conversation sought to uncover a deeper layer of the conflict — its religious and ideological roots.
Justin Brierley is joined by Father Cyril Hovorun, a Ukrainian Orthodox priest and theologian, and Clifford Longley, a Catholic journalist and Tablet contributor. Together, they explore the ancient Christian heritage shared by Russia and Ukraine, the mystical ideology of “Holy Rus,” and how Putin’s vision of spiritual destiny has shaped his aggression.
While some see this war as a purely political power play, this episode argues that religion, nationalism, and myth all play a critical role in Putin’s motivations.
🎧 Listen to this important archive conversation
📥 Subscribe to the Unbelievable? podcast for new episodes every week

Fr Cyril Hovorun: https://www.sanktignatios.org/dr-cyril-hovorun   
Clifford Longley: https://www.thetablet.co.uk/editors-desk/2/21568/religious-roots-of-ukraine-crisis-   

• Subscribe to the Unbelievable? podcast: https://pod.link/267142101
• More shows, free eBook & newsletter: https://premierunbelievable.com
• For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live
• For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training
• Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow
• Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate

Released on 3 Jun 2025