- June 8, 2025
- 8:30 pm
- Ukraine
“Russia is Iran, and Iran is Russia”: what Rabbi Asman said in his interview to Ukrinform
NAnews presents an overview of the interview with the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Reuven Asman, published on June 6, 2025, by the agency Ukrinform (in Ukrainian).
In this interview, Rabbi Asman speaks about the spiritual and political nature of the war, the role of Jews, the tragedy of his family, the unique missions of Israel and Ukraine, and the future — which he views with cautious optimism.
USA: “I speak to those influenced by propaganda”
In May 2025, Moshe Asman conducted an intensive visit to the United States. He met with dozens of congressmen, senators, advisors, and think tank representatives — including Randy Fine, a Jewish-Ukrainian politician personally endorsed by Donald Trump. He also held meetings with Doug Burgum, Marco Rubio, Andrew Baker of the American Jewish Committee, various pastors, and General Flynn.
The purpose of the visit was to dismantle myths and present the truth about Ukraine. Asman emphasized the importance of engaging not only with high-profile politicians but also with their advisors who shape decisions and policy papers.
“I saw how facial expressions changed among those who were initially skeptical. We spoke about disinformation, the spiritual dimension of the war, and Ukraine’s pain,” Asman said.
The example of Pastor Burns: “America First means helping Ukraine”
A powerful example of such diplomacy was the visit of American pastor Mark Burns to Ukraine. He visited Bucha, Azovstal, Babyn Yar, spoke to wounded Ukrainian soldiers, and became a vocal supporter of Ukraine in U.S. media after witnessing the devastation.
Influence through culture: a song for Trump
Asman also described a musical project — a song addressed to Trump, written in response to ballistic missile strikes on Kyiv. The video was aired on Newsmax and circulated across international media. Asman doesn’t know if Trump heard it, but believes that even its dissemination was meaningful.
Anatevka: Life Despite the War
A central theme of the interview is the Jewish village Anatevka near Kyiv, founded by Asman. It was originally created for displaced families from Donbas and became a refuge for thousands during the 2022 invasion.
| Year | Event | Figures |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Foundation of Anatevka | 20 families |
| 2022 | Evacuation during active combat | 1,000+ people |
| 2025 | Current residents | ~100 people |
Asman is now planning a new project — Anatevka-2, a village open to all who need protection, not just Jews.
The Axis of Evil and Israel’s Role
One of the most powerful statements in the interview: Israel and Ukraine stand on the same frontline against a common threat. Asman plainly says: “Russia is Iran, and Iran is Russia.” He explains that the Iranian drones attacking Ukraine will eventually be used against Israel. Russia, in turn, is paying Iran with technologies, including nuclear.
“Evil is always the same — it seeks to subjugate and destroy those who choose freedom.”
At NAnews — Israel News, we regularly publish stories emphasizing that Russia and Iran act as terrorist allies threatening both the Ukrainian and Jewish peoples.
Lessons from Israel for Ukraine
Asman believes Ukraine can learn from Israel how to “live under threat” while maintaining dignity, unity, and civic responsibility. He criticizes the lack of coordination and moral support for troops: “In Israel, the state will do everything to bring a soldier home. That inspires people to serve.”
Ukraine Can Also Be Strong
He notes that Ukraine today is in a better position than Israel was in 1948 — with international allies, funding, and weapons. But Ukraine must maintain internal unity. The rear must not forget the front.
Faith and Loss: The Death of a Son
In 2024, Asman’s adopted son, Matityahu (Anton), was killed at the front near Pokrovsk. A young man, newly married, father to a newborn. In his memory, the family is building a home for orphans and wounded soldiers. “They kill — we build. That is victory,” the rabbi says.
Operation “Web” and SBU Recognition
Asman expressed admiration for the SBU’s “Web” operation, comparing it to legendary Mossad missions. He noted that even Israeli intelligence recognized the effectiveness of Ukraine’s special forces — a reason to deepen joint security cooperation.
“Light Will Defeat Darkness”
Moshe Asman remains optimistic. He believes that change can come unexpectedly. Just like the young pilot who once landed a plane on Red Square, one strategic operation might become the turning point that ends a regime. But it will require willpower, faith, and truth.
At NAnews — Israel News, we continue to follow the voices of conscience and clarity among Jewish and Ukrainian leaders. Rabbi Asman’s voice is one of the strongest in these difficult times.
Full interview (in Ukrainian): https://www.ukrinform.ua/rubric-ato/4001520-mose-asman-golovnij-rabin-ukraini.html
