Exact numbers can be somewhat difficult to determine as the…

Exact numbers can be somewhat difficult to determine as the Soviet regime engaged in widespread persecution and killed numerous people for various reasons; religion was only one of many targeted aspects. However, it is agreed by historians that millions of people, including Christians, were persecuted and killed under Stalin’s regime due to their religious affiliations, among other factors. Many church leaders, monks and lay people were executed, and a huge number of churches were destroyed. The "Red Terror", the Great Purge, the forced collectivization, and other campaigns resulted in the deaths of millions of people.