Zelensky awards chief rabbi "for the defense of the country"

Chief Rabbi and Artem Rybchenko. Photo: Facebook

Volodymyr Zelensky has awarded Ukraine’s chief rabbi, Moshe Asman, the state decoration “For the Defense of Ukraine,” which was presented to the celebrant by senior officials. Asman announced this on his Facebook page.

Festivities marking the rabbi’s 60th birthday were attended by representatives of the highest levels of government. The award on behalf of the president was handed over by Deputy Minister for Communities and Territories Development Artem Rybchenko. Also present at the event were Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Presidential Office, and his deputy Iryna Mudra, who read out a personal greeting from Zelensky.

In his message, the head of state highly praised the jubilarian’s contribution to the “revival of spirituality.” “We highly value your efforts and tireless work aimed at upholding moral values, as well as your wide-ranging charitable and international activity during the difficult times of war,” the president’s message said.

Security officials also joined in honoring the birthday celebrant. Ihor Plakhuta, commander of the Territorial Defense Forces, awarded the rabbi the departmental medal “Star of the Territorial Defense Forces.” In turn, Moshe Asman presented the general with his autobiographical book Between Miracle and Reality, accompanied by a “special blessing.”

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the head of the UGCC had praised the chief rabbi’s contribution to strengthening the faith of Ukrainians.

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