Israeli-Ukrainian Dual Citizen Detained, Drafted into Ukrainian Army After Pilgrimage

A 49-year-old dual Israeli-Ukrainian citizen, originally from Ukraine and a follower of the Bratslav Hasidic movement, was detained at the Ukraine-Romania border while returning from a pilgrimage to Uman. The man, a father of six from Beitar Illit, was reportedly taken aside by border guards after speaking Ukrainian with them, leading to a more thorough inspection and his subsequent detention. His family has lost contact with him and is unaware of his whereabouts. Leaders within the Bratslav Hasidic community and local rabbis are reportedly attempting to use their connections to locate him. The family also lacks the financial means to hire legal representation. Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has become involved in efforts to ascertain his situation. Ukraine considers citizens aged 18 to 60 to be subject to military conscription, regardless of holding dual citizenship. The country is currently conducting stringent mobilization efforts, which have generated considerable public discontent.