In a significant meeting held on April 6, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gathered with leading rabbis and Jewish community representatives to mark the observance of Passover. This event, symbolizing the triumph of freedom, was particularly resonant given Ukraine’s ongoing struggles for sovereignty and peace.

The assembly included prominent figures such as military chaplains and members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. President Zelenskyy extended heartfelt Passover greetings, emphasizing the shared commitment to liberty and victory. “Freedom is important – the freedom we are fighting for as an entire nation. And we thank you for being part of this struggle, for supporting all our people and our entire state,” Zelenskyy remarked.

Chief Rabbi of Ukraine, Moshe Azman, and Chairman of the Council of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine, Meir Stambler, echoed the sentiment of resilience and solidarity. They highlighted the Jewish community’s dedication to Ukraine’s fight for statehood and freedom. The dialogue also touched on the cultural contributions amidst the conflict, with Raphael Rutman, Vice President of the Federation, noting the significant increase in Jewish books translated into Ukrainian and printed in Kharkiv despite ongoing threats.

The meeting not only reinforced the bonds between the Ukrainian state and the Jewish communities but also served as a platform for presenting President Zelenskyy with the first Ukrainian-language Torah, symbolizing hope and unity in challenging times.