DESS congratulates Ukraine’s Jews on Purim

Illustration for the Jewish holiday of Purim. Photo: Getty Images

On March 2, 2026, Ukraine’s State Service for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS) published a congratulatory message to the country’s Jewish community for the holiday of Purim. The statement was posted in the organization’s calendar of holidays and memorable dates.

The message emphasizes that Purim recalls the triumph of courage over fear and unity over discord. It notes that the events recounted in the biblical Book of Esther have become a symbol of a people’s salvation and of faith prevailing in the face of threat.

The authors draw a parallel between the Purim story and contemporary trials, highlighting the resilience of people who remain faithful to their convictions and support one another in difficult times. The statement stresses that evil holds no final power where dignity and solidarity endure.

The text also expresses wishes for hope, inner strength, and the support of “Heaven and people” for all who stand in defense of justice. The greeting closes with the traditional salutation: “Chag Purim Sameach!”

It is noted that the same day President Volodymyr Zelensky attended an iftar marking the start of Ramadan at a Kyiv mosque, where he dined with members of the Muslim community and government officials. Viktor Yelensky, head of DESS, was also present.

As the UOJ previously reported, Zelensky prayed with Jews, Muslims, Catholics, the OCU, and the UGCC in St. Sofia of Kyiv.

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