In war-torn Kyiv, Elkin-led Israeli delegation confronts familiar threats while marking Babyn Yar
Zelensky warned the Israeli delegation that the drones Iran is developing together with Russia, combined with the operational experience the two countries are gaining, could become a threat.
In the war-torn Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, an Israeli delegation led by former minister Kharkiv-born Ze ev Elkin confronted familiar threats while commemorating the Babyn Yar massacre. However, one crucial distinction was that Ukraine lacked an advanced air defense system like Israel's Iron Dome, leaving the delegation and locals to seek shelter during drone and missile alerts.
The delegation's visit coincided with the 85th anniversary of the Babyn Yar massacre, where Nazi forces and collaborators killed thousands of Jews in September 1941. Present at the memorial were Yad Vashem officials and officials responsible for Israel's relations with Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky invited Elkin and the delegation to meet him, discussing the war, regional situation, and strategic considerations involving Israel, Ukraine, and the United States.
During their meetings, Zelensky expressed interest in Israel's assessment of Iran and the Middle East developments, warning the delegation that Iran's growing cooperation with Russia could eventually pose a threat to Israel. Elkin also visited Ukrainian government officials, including the speaker of parliament and the minister of infrastructure reconstruction, mirroring his own responsibilities for Israel's reconstruction.
The symbolism of the visit was evident, as Elkin delivered a memorial speech in Ukrainian, highlighting his linguistic skills. Ukrainian officials emphasized their desire for improved relations, with the central issue being the potential for negotiations, particularly concerning the disputed Donbas region. Russia sought Ukraine to cede control of the Donbas, a demand that would create a new strategic vulnerability for Ukraine, justifying its resistance.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
