Ukrainian Ambassador Criticizes Israel Over Military Aid Delays
The Ukrainian Ambassador to Israel, Yevhen Korniychuk, has criticized Israel for remaining in what he terms a “comfort zone” and for not supplying Ukraine with key defensive weapons. He specifically pointed to the absence of Spike SR anti-tank systems and the Iron Dome missile defense system from Ukraine’s arsenal, a claim attributed to the Ukrainian mission by Media Line.
In his remarks, Korniychuk said that while Russia continues to strike Ukrainian citizens, the Israeli government is not providing what he considers essential defense assistance. He called for protective measures from Israel in the form of Iron Dome batteries and other similar equipment, stating that Ukraine needs every available form of defense to deter attacks and to safeguard its forces and civilians alike.
The ambassador drew a parallel between Ukraine’s situation and Israel’s own security challenges, noting the contrast between efforts to shield Ukrainian troops from the threat of a Russian occupation and Israel’s efforts to defend territories near the Gaza Strip from Hamas incursions. He suggested that the level of protection offered to Ukraine should mirror, in spirit if not in scale, the protections used by Israel to guard its border regions.
Korniychuk acknowledged the warmth and sympathy shown by many Israelis toward the Ukrainian people. He also noted that while public and political statements may carry empathy, concrete action has not matched those sentiments in the areas of military aid and defense assistance that Ukraine has sought.
Previously, reports indicated that Kyiv plans to acquire the Iron Dome air defense system from Jerusalem, a system Israel deploys to counter aerial threats. In related developments, Germany reportedly asked Israel for permission to transfer Spike SR anti-tank missiles to the Ukrainian armed forces, highlighting the ongoing debate among European partners about how best to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities while addressing broader security considerations in the region. [Source: Media Line]