Elitsa, Republic of Kalmykia, Russia, May 8, 2026
Photo: gazeta.ru A Russian Orthodox priest was attacked by a knife-wielding assailant at the Kazan Cathedral in Elista, the capital of Russia’s Republic of Kalmykia, on May 7.
The victim was identified as Archpriest Anatoly Sklyarov, a cleric serving at the cathedral. He sustained a hand injury in the attack but is not in life-threatening condition and is receiving medical treatment, reports the Elitsa Diocese.
Law enforcement authorities quickly apprehended the attacker at the scene. The assailant is believed to suffer from mental illness.
The diocese said it believes the attack was driven by his psychiatric condition rather than hostility toward Orthodox believers.
In its announcement, the diocese expresses support for Fr. Anatoly, his family, and the clergy and congregation of Kazan Cathedral. It calls for prayers for the priest’s speedy recovery and urges the public to remain calm and remember the principles of Christian mercy and compassion.
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