Ukrainian Minister Coordinates With Israeli Officials to Support Breslov Hasidim's Pilgrimage to Uman

Victor Yelensky, Ukraine's Minister for Religious Affairs, held two key discussions on Tuesday with senior Israeli government officials and Rabbi Yaakov Gan, the chief rabbi of Uman, ahead of the anticipated arrival of tens of thousands of Breslov Hasidim in Uman for Rosh Hashanah. Given the ongoing war in Ukraine, the pilgrimage faces significant challenges, prompting heightened coordination efforts.

In the first call, Yelensky spoke with Israeli Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar, who emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of the Israeli pilgrims traveling to Uman and their safe return to Israel. The second conversation involved Israeli Minister of Religious Services Yariv Levin and the Director-General of the Israeli Ministry of Religious Services, Yehuda Avidan, who stressed the deep religious significance of the pilgrimage for Breslov Hasidim and urged Yelensky to facilitate their journey to fulfill the will of their spiritual leader, Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.

Also participating in the discussions were Rabbi Yaakov Gan, Nahman Steinberg from the Zionist Organization, legal advisor Yaakov Amsalem, and Michael Pinto, Director-General of the Breslov Center, all involved in organizing the pilgrimage. Rabbi Gan noted that Uman is preparing to accommodate the large influx of worshippers and is working to provide necessary conditions for their stay.

These talks are part of ongoing diplomatic and logistical preparations aimed at enabling the traditional pilgrimage despite the difficult security environment. Efforts will continue in the coming weeks to coordinate between Ukrainian and Israeli authorities to safeguard the pilgrims and maintain order during their visit and return journey.