By COLlive reporter
Rabbi Meir Stambler, Chairman of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine, released a public letter to the members of Jewish communities across the former Soviet Union country.
“We assume that doubts, fears, worries and restlessness gnaw at your hearts,” he wrote in the letter on Tuesday.
“Please know that we, the rabbis and leaders of Judaism in Ukraine in every city and town – the Rebbe’s Shluchim in your city or district – constantly care and pray for your safety, and are doing everything to ensure your full security and peace.”
The letter was written as Russian President Vladimir Putin sends mixed signals about his willingness to invade the neighboring country of Ukraine.
President Joe Biden reported that 150,000 Russian forces are now massed near Ukraine and in Belarus. The Washington Post reported that Russia moved a fleet of naval vessels into the Black Sea, including Ropucha-class landing ships designed to invade territory through beach landings.
Meanwhile, a series of cyberattacks on Tuesday knocked out the websites of the Ukrainian army, the defense ministry and major banks, AP reported.
Speaking to the Jewish Chronicle last month, Rabbi Stambler said: “War is not good for any side. We pray, we try and do whatever we can to keep calm, in every way we can.”
His letter called on Ukraine’s Jews to unite on Wednesday in a day of prayer in each community that will consist of prayer, learning Torah and giving charity. He asked that it be done in synagogues and schools.
“By adding more positive light, we will bring blessing to the country, its residents and leaders, and we will add peace and serenity,” he said.
To assist the Jewish communities in Ukraine – click here to help
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