Chief rabbi: Jews feel safer in Ukraine than even in U.S.

Chief Rabbi of Ukraine. Photo: Moshe Azman’s Facebook page

Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Reuven Azman said the level of antisemitism in the country is lower than in Europe and the United States, RBC-Ukraine reports.

The religious leader pointed to the safety of Jewish life in Ukrainian cities. According to him, Jews in the West often hide their background and religious identity, while in Ukraine members of the community can walk the streets freely in traditional clothing without fearing for their safety.

Moshe Azman said he reached these conclusions after his latest trip to North America. “A week ago, I returned from the United States and Canada, where many propaganda narratives are circulating,” Azman said. “During my meetings, I told Americans that the level of antisemitism in Ukraine is much lower than in Europe or on American university campuses.”

According to the chief rabbi, Jewish organizations in Europe advise believers not to display their identity openly in public because of the high risks involved. In Ukraine, he said, Jews enjoy full freedom of religion and receive state support for their volunteer activities.

As previously reported by the UOJ, the chief rabbi thanked Zelensky for the law against antisemitism.

Read also