Zelensky's second address to the citizens of Israel

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine spoke via video link with Israeli students at the invitation of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

This was the Ukrainian leader's second speech to Israelis, following the first one that took place on 20 March 2022, in which he spoke to members of the Knesset. In contrast to the one three months ago, this time, Zelensky did not make the same mistakes that had angered many Israelis last March.

"Our countries are very close. The Israeli people understand Ukrainian needs. We are grateful for all the supportive words. But we would like to have more help from the government of Israel. After all, this is about values and joint security," Zelensky emphasized live on 22 June 2022.

The Ukrainian leader stressed the importance of the general heritage of Ukrainians and Jews, including the centuries-long Jewish history in the Ukrainian lands. "The street in Kyiv where Golda Meir lived is located right next to the monument to Sholem Aleichem—and that is no accident," said President Zelensky.

He called Russia a terrorist state: "They are destroying our cities, burning everything in their path. Can you imagine the destruction of 2,000 educational institutions in Ukraine? What kind of person must you be to cause deliberate damage to a kindergarten? Everywhere in Ukraine, they are shooting people on the streets, torturing, and raping minors."

Zelensky thanked ordinary Israelis for supporting Ukraine through humanitarian assistance. At the same time, the president criticized the Israeli government for its inadequate support of Ukraine. Zelensky expressed surprise that Israel has not sent military aid to Ukraine and has not joined the Western sanctions. "We will still have to look into each other's eyes," said the Ukrainian president.

The Hebrew University students, among whom were natives of Kharkiv and Dnipro, had an opportunity to ask the president some questions. The lively exchange with Volodymyr Zelensky made an excellent impression on the young Israelis.

Related: Zelensky tells Israeli students he is disappointed by government’s level of support

Text and photos (video screen grabs): Shimon Briman (Israel).

Translated from the Ukrainian by Marta D. Olynyk.