Four Breslov Hasidim Detained Abroad After Ukraine New Year Pilgrimage

Four Breslov Hasidim were detained in separate incidents while attempting to return to Israel after participating in the Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage to Uman, Ukraine. One 49-year-old man, a Ukrainian-born Israeli citizen residing in Beitar Illit, was arrested at the Romanian border. During a document check, it was discovered he was subject to conscription in Ukraine. He was immediately taken into military service, and all contact with him has since been lost. A source familiar with the situation described how the man, who spoke Ukrainian and was initially friendly with soldiers, was detained after his conscription obligation was revealed. His family is deeply worried and has been unable to establish contact, with community activists unable to locate him or find a solution for his release. Another Hasid was detained upon landing in Cyprus. He had previously sent a suitcase filled with khat to Cyprus and was flagged in the system. Upon attempting to enter the country, he was arrested. Two other Hasidim were detained in Moldova. One was arrested after seriously injuring a local citizen with his vehicle and had his detention extended by 40 days. The second Hasid was apprehended in Chisinau while returning from Uman, found to be in possession of forged passports. He was released on bail but must remain in Moldova pending further legal proceedings.