Budanov in synagogue: Hanukkah will illuminate victories of Ukraine and Israel
Kyrylo Budanov (right) holding the torch to light the menorah. Photo: JCC BEIT Menachem KYIV Facebook
At a festive banquet held at Kyiv's central synagogue, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's Defense Intelligence, lit the second Hanukkah candle on the menorah alongside Vitali Klitschko, the Chief Rabbi, and the Israeli ambassador.
Before the ceremony, Budanov addressed the banquet participants with a formal speech. Among other remarks, he stated, "The flame of this candle will illuminate our future victory – both ours and that of the State of Israel."
"We all need it," Budanov concluded.
Notably, during the menorah lighting ceremony, Rabbi Yonatan Markovitch spoke to Budanov in Russian.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Budanov lit a Hanukkah menorah made from missile fragments at the Jewish community center.
Read also
The war in Ukraine is evil and diabolical – Ecumenical Patriarch
According to Patriarch Bartholomew, war is contrary to the will of God, Who created us for love, peace, and joy.
State Duma member calls on ROC to defrock priest Andrey Tkachev
Nina Ostanina said that Tkachev casts a shadow on the ROC.
Bodoriak urges "Romanian" parishes of UOC to "choose autocephaly and truth"
The Chernivtsi "bishop" of the OCU claimed that Putin influences millions of Ukrainians.
Pat. Bartholomew to Ukrainian children: I do not forget your pain as you're my grandchildren
The Patriarch of Constantinople emphasized that he prays every day for the children of Ukraine and their families.
Church celebrates the Feast of Holy Chief Apostles Peter and Paul
On July 12, the feast day of the Apostles Peter and Paul, the Orthodox faithful conclude the Peter's Fast.
Pope to AI for Good Summit participants: AI requires ethical management
"AI requires proper ethical management and regulatory frameworks centered on the human person," warns the Pontiff.