Netanyahu Sends Handwritten Independence Day Greetings to Ukrainian President Zelensky

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent a congratulatory letter to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the occasion of Ukraine's 35th Independence Day, celebrated on August 24, 2026. Zelensky shared the letter on his X account, highlighting the warm message and the deep ties between the two nations in people-to-people relations, economy, and culture. Netanyahu praised Ukraine's achievements over three and a half decades, especially its ongoing national defense efforts amid current challenges.

A significant part of Netanyahu's letter addressed the shared security threat posed by Iran. He noted that Iran's destabilizing activities threaten security beyond the Middle East and affirmed Israel's commitment to confronting this threat and promoting regional and international stability. This concern reflects Israel's awareness of Iran supplying advanced weaponry to Russia, which is used in the conflict in Ukraine.

Netanyahu also emphasized the historical connections between Israel and Ukraine and expressed hope for continued cooperation to strengthen these bonds. He concluded the letter with a personal handwritten note in blue ink, stating, "I enjoyed meeting you, albeit briefly, in Washington." Zelensky responded by expressing optimism about productive collaboration to enhance security, underscoring Ukraine's desire to deepen ties with Israel amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.