Why Russia is sending dead princes and saints into battle

Key Points:

• Russian troops in eastern Ukraine have been given a fragment of the remains of Dmitry Donskoy, a 14th-century warrior prince, to boost morale and symbolize divine support in the ongoing conflict.
• The Russian Orthodox Church and Kremlin closely collaborate, using religious relics and symbolism to frame Russia’s military efforts as righteous defense rather than aggression.
• Experts describe the use of such relics as a “mobilizing myth” aimed at strengthening nationalistic and spiritual resolve among soldiers, despite criticism that this exploits Christianity for political purposes.
• While many soldiers find comfort and moral support in religious practices at the front lines, overall church attendance and active faith participation in Russia remain low, with religious events often serving political rather than purely spiritual goals.
• The conflict has deepened the split between the Russian Orthodox Church and the independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine, with some clergy condemning the church’s endorsement of military action as contrary to Christian teachings.