In his article, semiotician Mihhail Lotman argues that the status of the Estonian Christian Orthodox Church (EKÕK) must be considered in light of Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. Lotman emphasizes that the Moscow Patriarchate's involvement is critical to understanding the church's position and its implications for Estonian society. He suggests that the church cannot be divorced from the geopolitical realities surrounding it, particularly given the current tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

Lotman further elaborates on the historical context, noting that the church's status cannot merely be seen as a religious issue but rather as intertwined with issues of national identity, sovereignty, and historical responsibility. The church's actions and affiliations may have broader implications, affecting not only its congregants but also the relationship between Estonia and Russia. He raises important questions regarding the moral and ethical responsibilities that the church has in this context, reflecting on its past and present roles.

Ultimately, the discussion ventures into the territory of how institutions like the church adapt and respond to modern conflicts and the boundaries they navigate between loyalty to their beliefs and the changing national narratives. Lotman's insights call for a nuanced understanding of religion's role in contemporary geopolitics, highlighting the need for the EKÕK to position itself thoughtfully in response to the realities imposed by the war.