Chicago December 18, 2024
The situation in Syria and Russia’s declining influence could create a new opportunity for Israel and Ukraine to improve their relationship, according to comments from Yuli Edelstein, chair of Israel’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.
Edelstein, a member of the ruling Likud party, expressed that it is time for Israel to increase its support for Ukraine. This comes as the dynamics in the region change, particularly with the downfall of the Assad regime in Syria.
Israel has traditionally been careful in balancing its relations with both Russia and Ukraine. This careful stance was largely due to the need to maintain good relations with Russia, which had significant control over Syrian airspace. Israel often carried out airstrikes in Syria to target Iranian-backed groups without provoking Russia.
However, with Russia’s influence waning and its continued support for Iran and other groups hostile to Israel, the Ukrainian Ambassador to Israel, Yevhen Korniychuk, has been pushing for stronger military ties and support. Korniychuk highlighted that Israel’s previous justifications for limited involvement in Ukraine are no longer valid, especially since Russia’s reduced presence means it is less risky for Israel to upset Moscow.
Currently, Israel provides humanitarian and defensive support to Ukraine but has stopped short of sending advanced weaponry. Korniychuk urged Israel to reconsider this policy, especially in light of recent security challenges Israel has faced, including a drone attack that killed four Israeli soldiers. The ambassador suggests that closer defense collaboration with Ukraine in the past might have better prepared Israel for such threats.
