Israeli-Ukrainian Breslov Hasid Drafted Into Ukrainian Army, Assigned as Medic Near Kharkiv

Yonatan Karlinsky, a 49-year-old Breslov Hasid from Beitar Illit, Israel, who was detained by Ukrainian forces ten days ago while attempting to return to Israel from Uman, has been drafted into the Ukrainian army and will be stationed as a medic near Kharkiv. Karlinsky, a Ukrainian-born Israeli citizen, had traveled to Uman for Rosh Hashanah. Upon checking his documents at the border, it was discovered he was subject to conscription. He was arrested by military police, and contact with him was lost until recently.

Despite initial concerns and efforts by his family to secure his release, it became clear that this was impossible due to his Ukrainian birth and legal obligation to serve. Reports that he was exempt due to having six children were incorrect; he has only one daughter. The Federation of Jewish Communities in Ukraine (FJCU) reported that Karlinsky is currently in a detention facility in Odesa and is receiving all necessary provisions, including kosher food and prayer items, facilitated by local Chabad emissaries and the city's chief rabbi.

Karlinsky, who previously served in the Ukrainian army before becoming religious and moving to Israel, is being assigned as a medic due to his civilian profession and the army's significant need for medical personnel. He will be stationed in a rear base, several dozen kilometers from active combat zones. Karlinsky himself stated in a video message that he is being treated decently and does not wish to hold a weapon, which the army has accommodated by assigning him to a medical role.

The FJCU noted that while they attempted to secure his release, it was not feasible given his conscription status and the army's needs. The organization has been actively supporting Jewish soldiers by distributing holiday kits and supplies to bases on the front lines. This year's distribution efforts have faced increased challenges due to the expanded range and destructive capabilities of Russian FPV drones, making overland deliveries to certain regions particularly dangerous.