Israeli Doctor Detained at Ukraine Border to Serve as Medic Near Kharkiv

Yonatan Karlinsky, a 49-year-old dual Israeli-Ukrainian citizen and physician from Beitar Illit, has been detained in a camp in Ukraine's Odesa region after attempting to leave the country via the Romania border following a pilgrimage to Uman. Karlinsky, a member of the Bratslav Hasidic movement, will serve in the Ukrainian army as a military doctor, with deployment expected soon to a rear medical unit in the Kharkiv region.

Initial reports suggested Karlinsky might be exempt from mobilization as a father of multiple children, but this was unconfirmed, as he has only one daughter. The Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine confirmed his situation, noting that efforts to secure his release have failed due to a significant shortage of medical personnel in the Ukrainian army. He previously served in the Ukrainian military, making him subject to conscription.

Rabbi Avraham Wolff of Odesa and the local Chabad organization are providing Karlinsky with kosher food and prayer items. He sent a video to his family assuring them he is being treated well. Karlinsky's detention occurred when he spoke Ukrainian to border guards, prompting a more thorough inspection that led to his arrest. Ukraine considers citizens aged 18 to 60 liable for military service, regardless of dual citizenship, as the country continues stringent mobilization efforts that have caused considerable discontent.