- March 8, 2025
- 5:41 pm
- Ukraine
Amid the war, the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine, together with Chabad representatives, organized the delivery of 1,000 gift packages to Jewish soldiers serving in the ranks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This is a symbolic reminder of the holiday’s traditions, which take on special significance in times of war.
On March 7, 2025, this was reported by the Israeli news outlet “כאן 11”.
A Holiday on the Frontlines: How Support Is Organized
Purim is a holiday of deliverance celebrated by Jewish communities worldwide. Traditionally, people send each other “mishloach manot” – gift packages filled with treats, symbolizing care and unity.
Despite the challenges posed by wartime conditions, the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine, in collaboration with Chabad, obtained permission from Ukrainian authorities to deliver 1,000 of these festive packages to Jewish soldiers serving in various Ukrainian military units.
Organizers had to overcome several bureaucratic hurdles: civilians are prohibited from freely traveling to the frontlines, and compiling lists of Jewish soldiers required meticulous coordination. However, Kyiv ultimately gave the green light, and the packages were dispatched to their recipients.
At the same time, 48,000 packages filled with treats were distributed to Jewish families across Ukraine.
Why Does This Matter?
The head of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine, Rabbi Meir Stambler, emphasized the importance of this gesture:
“Ukraine stands on the same side as Israel in confronting what is known as the ‘axis of evil’—Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Purim reminds us that even in the darkest times, miracles are possible. We believe in change despite the challenges and pray for peace in Ukraine, Israel, and for the Jewish people worldwide.”
This initiative is not just an act of care for soldiers—it carries deep symbolic meaning. It highlights the shared destiny of Jewish communities in Ukraine and Israel, both of which face threats from terrorists and authoritarian regimes.
Jewish Soldiers in Ukraine: Service, War, and Faith
Since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, Jewish citizens have been at the forefront of the fight for freedom. Many have volunteered for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, provided humanitarian aid, or supported the army through medical assistance and logistics.
Ukraine has long been home to a large Jewish community, and today, Ukrainian Jews continue to defend their country, standing alongside their fellow citizens. Their support from Jewish organizations serves as a powerful gesture of unity and resilience, especially during holidays like Purim.
The Bond Between Ukraine and Israel – A Common Struggle
NAnews – Israel News has repeatedly reported on how Jewish communities in Ukraine actively support their country, not just morally but through concrete actions.
Israel and Ukraine face a shared threat—aggression from authoritarian regimes. Russia’s war against Ukraine, Moscow’s support for Hamas terrorists, and its cooperation with Tehran and Pyongyang demonstrate that Israel and Ukraine must act together to protect their nations.
“Ukraine and Israel are nations that understand the true price of independence. In times of war, holidays take on special significance. They remind us that even in the darkest times, faith and unity can endure.”
NAnews – Israel News continues to monitor the situation and highlight initiatives aimed at supporting Jewish soldiers in Ukraine.
Conclusion
The holiday of Purim is a reminder of salvation, and in 2024, this symbolism has become especially relevant for Jewish soldiers in Ukraine. Despite the war, 1,000 servicemen in the Ukrainian Armed Forces will receive holiday packages, underscoring the importance of tradition even in the most challenging times.
Ukrainian Jews continue to fight for their country, and Jewish communities stand by them—this is the true essence of the brotherhood between Ukraine and Israel.
NAnews‼️: Ukraine and Israel stand together against aggression, while the Jewish community continues to uphold its traditions even in times of war. Read more at NAnews – Israel News.
