The Security Service of Ukraine carried out a series of counterterrorism measures in Uman, Cherkasy Oblast, ahead of the annual Rosh Hashanah celebration and the arrival of a large number of pilgrims.
This was reported by the SBU press service.
These measures are aimed at strengthening security and refining rapid response to potential threats.
Regional units of the SBU, the National Police, the National Guard, the State Emergency Service, and other agencies are involved in the counter-sabotage operations.
Comprehensive training exercises took place on the grounds of an unfinished building at the Rabbi Nachman Historical and Cultural Center to test the security of the pilgrimage site.
“SBU special forces simulated a scenario and carried out an assault using mountaineering equipment, detained a simulated ‘terrorist group,’ and freed the hostages,” the statement said.
However, the SBU and the National Police recommend that Hasidic pilgrims refrain from visiting Ukraine this year to celebrate Rosh Hashanah. This is because Russia may exploit the arrival and mass gathering of pilgrims to stage provocations.
As a reminder, the Israeli Embassy predicts that more than 30,000 Hasidic pilgrims will arrive in Uman this year for the Rosh Hashanah celebrations.
This year, the Jewish New Year will be celebrated from September 15 to September 17, 2023.