During a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the President of Ukraine discussed ensuring the full implementation of the visa-free regime for Ukrainians and ways to guarantee the safety of Hasidic pilgrims during their annual visit to Uman.
This was reported by the press service of the Office of the President.
“In light of the approaching Jewish New Year—Rosh Hashanah—and the expected mass arrival of Hasidic pilgrims in Uman, ways to ensure their safety were discussed,” the statement said.
Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine always welcomes pilgrims with warmth and hospitality and is responsible for their safety.
According to Israeli estimates, about 50,000 Hasidic pilgrims may arrive in Uman this year.
“It was emphasized that currently, bomb shelters at pilgrimage sites in Uman can accommodate only about 11,000 people. At the same time, given Russia’s full-scale aggression and the constant threat of strikes by Russian missiles and Iranian drones, this year’s pilgrimage will be accompanied by significant security risks,” the Office of the President reported.
The President considers this a security challenge that requires an urgent joint response.
“Urgent joint action is needed to ensure the safety of a larger number of people,” he noted.
Separately, the parties discussed the possibility of deploying additional Israeli police forces to the pilgrimage sites.
The Ukrainian head of state separately raised the issue of the increasing number of refusals to grant Ukrainians entry into Israel despite the visa-free regime between the two countries and emphasized the need to rectify this situation.
The President also noted the importance of Israel’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and expressed gratitude for providing shelter to Ukrainians who fled to Israel as a result of Russia’s full-scale aggression. During the meeting, the restoration of free health insurance for them in Israel was noted.
The parties also discussed possible ways for Israel to support Ukraine in countering the Russian Federation’s invasion and exchanged views on cooperation between Ukraine and Israel on the international stage.
What Restrictions Will Be in Effect in Uman
Ihor Taburets, head of the Cherkasy Regional State Administration, announced that to ensure the safety of local residents and visitors, special restrictions on entry, exit, and movement will be in effect in the city from September 11 to 21. In the pilgrimage area, restrictions on the sale and use of certain categories of goods will be in effect.