Rabbi: Those opposed to menorahs in central Kyiv are serving Russia
Klitschko after lighting the Hanukkah menorah on Maidan. Photo: Klitschko's website
Rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman told "1+1" in Russian that those who oppose the installation of Jewish menorahs in Ukraine’s major cities are acting in Russia’s interests.
Azman’s remarks were a response to a controversial post by Katya Chilly, who argued that Ukraine’s capital should feature Christmas symbols instead of those of "foreign peoples."
The rabbi stated that anti-Hanukkah menorah protests occur annually in Ukraine, adding that "then (Russians – Ed.) showcase this worldwide, portraying Ukraine as antisemitic."
He emphasized that the participation of Ukraine’s political and military leadership in menorah-lighting ceremonies creates a positive image of the country globally.
"Russia claims Ukraine is an antisemitic country, but in reality, army generals and leaders here light menorahs," said Azman.
"Lighting menorahs in the city center is especially important now, during wartime. It greatly benefits the country’s image," the rabbi assured.
Earlier, it was reported that the Israeli Embassy in Kyiv had called on Ukraine to address antisemitism on social media.
Read also
Met. Meletiy consecrates house of worship for UOC community in Dankivtsi
Members of the persecuted UOC Intercession parish in Dankivtsi have converted a house into a place for communal prayer and worship services.
OCU eparchy sells church center site to developer for housing
The OCU’s Volyn Eparchy sold land intended for a spiritual center to a private developer planning to build townhouses and residential buildings.
SBU names UOC priest’s wife a suspect in Cherkasy region
The SBU accused Matushka Kateryna Prykotenko of “spreading enemy propaganda” through correspondence with parishioners.
UGCC cleric calls Russian Orthodox literature dangerous for clergy
While examining the causes of divisions within the UGCC, Yustyn Boiko concluded that Russian Orthodox literature had influenced Greek Catholic clergy.
UOC will play major role in achieving peace, says Vadym Novynskyi
UOC Protodeacon Vadym Novynskyi believes the Church will help bring about reconciliation within Ukrainian society after the war ends.
Catholic media outraged by forcible conscription of Uniate cleric
The Vatican’s Apostolic Nunciature has demanded the return of a forcibly mobilized Greek Catholic cleric.