After deliberations and discussions, Israel issued a political statement on the issue of Ukraine in which it expressed support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. This is a relatively moderate statement that has no direct reference to Russia or condemnation of its recent steps, including the recognition of the two provinces of separatists in eastern Ukraine. The position was given after discussions at the top of the Foreign Ministry, in the National Security Council and among other parties, and following a consultation that took place at noon between Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Defense Minister Bnei Gantz.
A statement from Foreign Ministry spokesman Lior Hayat said: “Israel shares the international concern about the steps taken in eastern Ukraine and the severe escalation that has taken place in the country.
“Israel supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.
“The State of Israel also cares for the well-being of thousands of Israeli citizens living in Ukraine and its large Jewish community. Israel is prepared to provide Ukraine with immediate humanitarian aid in accordance with the needs that arise, and is in close dialogue with its partners on ways to get diplomatic efforts back on track.” .
1/3 Israel shares the international concern over the steps in eastern Ukraine and the severe escalation in the situation, hopes that a diplomatic solution will be found that will lead to calm and is ready to mobilize for it, if requested.
Israel supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/GQrefVA6Wt
– Lior Haiat ???????? (@LiorHaiat) February 23, 2022
The dilemmas in the leadership in Jerusalem stemmed from the desire not to break the tools with Putin’s Russia; Because of the relative freedom that Russia allows for Israeli military activity in Syria, and also because of the other political and economic ties with it.
On the other hand, the administration in Washington expected an Israeli announcement that would put Jerusalem on the side of Western countries and especially on the United States itself, Israel’s greatest friend.