Ashley Judd visited Kramatorsk, Orlando Bloom – Slavyansk…

While politicians are bargaining, negotiating and sitting at round tables, life in the Donbass is going on: people can not stop and wait until the politicians come to an agreement. Already today, they need to rebuild war-shattered region, every day they are in need of psychological and material assistance. The strange thing is that these issues are raised by the foreign stars. Actually, they do not even raise the issues, but come with a concrete help, and not for the sake of publicity stunt.

The conflict in the Donbass region exposed the number of problems that had existed before, but worsened with the beginning of the war. If on the territories controlled by Ukraine the situation with human rights can be at least recorded, we can only guess about the things happening in the “grey” areas. In Ukraine, there is no simple institution for the protection of civil rights during military conflicts, so it's important to work with the UN ambassadors of goodwill.

Ashley Judd, Goodwill Ambassador of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), visited the Donbass to draw attention to the vulnerability of women and girls under the conditions of military conflict. During the visit, the actress talked on equal terms with women and girls affected by conflict, explaining their rights to them. She went to Kramatorsk, Slavyansk and Svyatogorsk, visited the maternity hospital, social centers and shelters for displaced persons.

UN gives the shocking figures: according to the organization, worldwide the level of gender-based violence increases sharply in conflict, and in Ukraine, 22% of women have experienced or continue to suffer from physical or sexual abuse, while two-thirds of them have never asked for help. According to Ashley Judd, this high figure is due to the fact that, firstly, such issues are not used to be talked about in the society. And secondly, Ukrainian women simply don’t have where to address, the country sorely lacks the centers for assistance from any kind of violence. About 80% of Ukrainian women who have experienced violence, never applied for medical services or to law enforcement agencies.

Frankly speaking, I was struck by these statistics. After all, nobody really talks about what is happening in the conflict zone. Dry official reports and information from friends are all the news sources from the Donbass. Meanwhile, the common problems connected with violence in military conflict zones has not been canceled, and every day civilians are in dire need of support. It would be good if not only world famous stars and international organizations, but also local authorities paid attention to these issues.

I am constantly trying to tell you about the development of trade, economic and business relations between Israel and Ukraine, because I believe that this issue is not being covered enough.

In my opinion, prospects of bilateral cooperation are great and cold figures demonstrate that.

To date, Ukraine's export to Israel is estimated at about $ 900 million each year, import from Israel to Ukraine is $ 400 million The trade turnover between Ukraine and Israel increased by more than 49% in the first year after the introduction of visa-free regime. Now the goods turnover between our countries is more than $ 1 billion per year, and despite the war, crisis, numerous threats that exist in both countries, this figure is constantly growing.

The next significant step in the development of bilateral relations between our countries should be the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). According to Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy Vladyslava Rutytska, soon the next round of talks on the issue will be held.

To date, a priority in bilateral relations is the agricultural sector. This concerns, above all, the food industry. After the signing of the FTA, Ukraine will receive new prospects for farm producers. In particular, Ukrainians will be able to sell Ukrainian beef to Israelis. In addition, as I have already said, Ukraine is the main supplier of grain from which Israelis bake their famous matzah: there is more than half of “Ukrainian” matzah in Israel. Already today we have established cooperation in the field of agriculture, trade, culture, science, technology, medicine, the construction of commercial and residential real estate is developing.

But all this propositions are done for B2B format – business to business, and we want it to shift to S2S – state to state. If you look through my posts, you will see, that few times a week I write about what Ukraine can take after Israel: for medicine, for army, for security, regarding technologies etc. All this will work if state will act as a representative of interests of its citizen. Today Ukrainian farmers sell their goods on the internal market for the minimum price. Israel – is the market, that will in stable manner and with pleasure will purchase Ukrainian goods, and for currency – you can agree this is a good perspective. Main issue lies in the fact, that for realization our officials should continue working and do not stop on the achieved.

It shouldn’t be forgotten about the investment cooperation with Israel, for witch strong legislation base is already formed, including agreement on encouragement and mutual protection of investments. But like many other agreements in Ukraine they work only on paper.

Today for Ukrainian business to work and not just fight for its existence, our officials have to develop legislation that will work not only on paper. Israelis are ready for cooperation, we only have to create suitable conditions for investments to come.

In my opinion base spheres where government should concentrate its attention is modernization of enterprises, fight with corruption, as well as the reform of the public procurement system. Hopefully, in the near future we will see a change for the better in these areas.

Over the past few years, Ukraine faced a number of new or long-forgotten problems associated with the war.

But if the issues of armament or equipment for soldiers are somehow solved, the problems of people, who have become disabled as a result of hostilities, are not really dealt with. Almost daily the press center of ATO reports of soldiers wounded in the Donbass: many of them will remain disabled for the whole life.

Today in Ukraine there is no extensive government program that would provide social and psychological support to soldiers. Rehabilitation and adaptation of veterans again fell on the shoulders of volunteers and activists. I'm not saying that no city of Ukraine can be fully considered friendly to a person with disabilities. Of course, recently in Ukraine the attitude to the soldiers has changed: people began to notice men in uniform and show respect for them. But the soldiers cannot wear uniforms all the time.

In this sense, Israel has overtaken Ukraine for two hundred years. In addition to the well-developed infrastructure for disabled people, the state cares not only about every soldier, but also about his family. In Israel there is the government program of psychological help for soldiers, a serious social support when a soldier does not have to stand in line for months for an operation on prosthetics. In addition, Israeli society treats its soldiers with the utmost respect, realizing that these people protect the country risking their lives.

In Ukraine volunteers on their own began actively helping the soldiers to take courses of physical and psychological recovery. So last week one of the capital's sports clubs hosted the tournament "Games of Heroes ", which was attended by ATO soldiers with different amputations. Each team of two soldiers had to go through five stages: the bike, push-ups, doing abdominal crunches, weightlifting and rowing simulator. Just look at these guys! I cannot really call them people with disabilities. In addition, they physically can give a huge head start to many, they have managed to cope with the main rival for any soldier - to overcome themselves. By their example, they have shown the other soldiers, that life does not end, and you can live fully, even after such terrible injuries.

Of course, such projects as "Games of Heroes" should be actively supported and developed, but without government support, only with the efforts of volunteers - how long will they exist?

Тoday the capital of Ukraine - the ancient city of Kyiv marks its birthday!

Dear citizens of Kyiv, accept my sincere congratulations on the Day of the city!
We all love the beautiful hero-city of Kyiv not only for its unique architecture and a great history, but above all, for its people. Kyiv has been and remains the spiritual, cultural, economic and political center of the whole Ukraine. Despite all the historical vicissitudes and difficulties, a sense of pride for our capital overwhelms my heart every day.

Kyiv is a visiting card of our country not only for Ukraine but also for the rest of the world. It is Kyiv that has become the cradle of world-renowned scientists, writers and poets, reformers, engineers and athletes, doctors, teachers and soldiers. The huge potential of this city has attracted the best minds of the time long since. I firmly believe that Kyiv should become a city, which will be along with the best European capitals.

Today, I wish the citizens of Kyiv and guests of the capital to walk with their friends and families along the cozy streets of Kyiv and enjoy the beauty and majesty of our city. Spend the day with your loved ones and the beloved city! Remember how many wonderful museums, patios, streets and parks, just comfortable places there are in Kyiv. I wish everybody a beautiful day, sunny weather and positive emotions, and I wish our ancient capital and its residents success in any business, as well as the implementation of plans and aspirations.
Happy Day of Kyiv, the capital!

In the recent time the name of Ukraine stood loud on the world cultural arena. But I cannot leave Israel cultural achievements unattended.

Today I want to tell you about achievement of Israel cinema and unique symbolic project, that highlights common history of Ukrainian, Jewish and Crimean Tatar nations.

Last week two Israeli movies “Anna” and “Week and one day” got their prizes on Cannes Film Festival that finished last Sunday.

I congratulate Israeli filmmakers and wish them further victories!

Movie “Anna”, directed by Or Sinay, tells a story of a divorced woman, who have chosen her son and the center of her life. Movie took first prize in the contest of student films as part of the festival. Now Or Sinay has the opportunity to present his full length movie on the Festival in Cannes in the future.

Work of the other Israelis director Asaf Polonsky – “Week and one day” – got the prize from the Week of movie critics. Author himself got the prize of 20 thousand US dollars. Movie tells a story of a family couple, that in a different way try to go through the death of their son.

The next event I’d like to share with you – is the movie of Ukrainian director Ahtem Sejtablaiev “Her Heart”, that tells a tragic story of Crimean Tatar girl, who saved 88 Jewish children from death.

Movie is based on the real events, and the prototype of the main character became a simple kindergarten teacher from Bakhchisarai – Sayide Arifova. During the World War the Second, to save Jewish children, she gave them Tatar names, learned them to talk like Crimean Tatars and even taught them how to pray as per Muslim tradition. Sayide was tortured, to find out the truth about children origin, and children were given special exam for “nationality”. But it was not the end of the story: when Red Army came to Crimea, Sayide had to save the children for a second time, but now against deportation. Sayide herself was deported as hundreds thousands of her compatriots.

This tragic story one more time proves how close are the fates of our nations. Now film director Ahtem Sejtabkaiev looks for proofs form the witnesses of that events, for Israeli Yad Vashem to recognize Sayede Arifova as the righteous of the world.

Today a particular holiday is celebrated in Israel – Lag B’Omer, when Jews remember the two great sages Rabbi Akiva and Shimon bar Yochai, and fearless warrior Bar Kokhba.

Lag B’Omer is the 33rd day of the Counting of the Omer, which starts after Passover. At Lag B’Omer ended a deadly epidemic that raged among the students of Rabbi Akiva and claimed 24 thousand lives. Shimon bar Yochai was one of the few students who remained alive after the epidemic. Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai is one of the founders of the Kabbalistic teaching, the author of the Zohar book. Many years later Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai died at the same day. Therefore, on this day the believers visit his grave at the Meron.

Bar Kokhba is the famous leader of the Jews, who managed to organize the people and raise a serious revolt against the Romans in 130 CE. In this struggle for the independence hundreds of thousands of Jews were killed, many people, including Rabbi Akiva, were executed and crucified.

Interesting traditions are connected with this day. The main custom of this holiday is the lighting of bonfires starting from sunset and going on almost until dawn. People dance and sing songs all night long, because Shimon bar Yochai asked his disciples to be joyful, not sad this day. The tradition of lighting bonfires originates from a legend, according to which, after the death of Rabbi Akiva, his house was filled with spiritual light as a sign of his deep knowledge of the Torah.

After Passover children arrange real competition in collecting twigs and brushwood for bonfires. On the eve of the holiday children parades are held everywhere, a bow and arrows are bought for children, so they can play soldiers of Bar Kochba’s troop.

Children who are 3 years old have traditional haircutting (Upsherin) at the Meron. On this day, the mourning for the students of Rabbi Akiva stops and the weddings are arranged for those who have planned to marry since Passover.

I congratulate Israeli and wish everybody a merry holiday!

Yesterday in Israel, an important event happened: the leader of the political party Yisrael Beiteinu (Israel Is Our Home) Avigdor Lieberman signed an agreement to enter coalition with the ruling party Likud, headed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

     The leader of Yisrael Beiteinu party, the Minister of Defence of Israel Avigdor Lieberman and Honorary Consul of the State of Israel in Western Ukraine Oleg Vyshniakov

          The leader of Yisrael Beiteinu party, the Minister of Defence of Israel Avigdor Lieberman and the leader of Likud party, the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The photographer is Emil Salman

This event was the result of a long negotiation process. The main issue, which was a stumbling block between the politicians, was the pension payment for elderly immigrants from the former USSR. As a result, the parties managed to agree that the pension reform will be distributed to all categories of citizens, without any exception by place of birth or former employment. The total value of the rise in pensions and benefits for elderly Israelis will be 1.3-1.4 billion shekels (330-360 mln. US dollars) for Israel.

I want to explain why this event is also important for Ukraine. First of all, because Yisrael Beiteinu is a party of the politicians who represent the interests of our expatriates and immigrants in general. And, as we see, they can do that well.

In my opinion, the signing of the coalition agreement between Yisrael Beiteinu and Likud is an example of the real democratic process in the country. Despite the disagreements or disputes, Israeli politicians always put not personal or political gain, but the interests of citizens in the first place. Therefore, in contrast to the Ukrainian lawmakers, they are able to come to the right decision and compromise quickly. In Israel they always agree about everything not because someone has been bribed or intimidated, but because, first, there are not so many deputies and politicians, and if you tarnish your reputation – that is it, you can forget about your political career. And secondly, because every vote in Parliament is very important: there are only 120 deputies in the Knesset of Israel, so every vote is as valuable as gold. To achieve political longevity in Israel is possible only by creating real laws, rather than engaging in demagoguery.

At the ceremony of signing the leaders of the parties - Avigdor Lieberman and Benjamin Netanyahu - admitted that they had disagreements, but for the benefit of the citizens of the Jewish state they are willing to work together. That is what I call an example of productive cooperation and responsible government position.

I have known Avigdor Lieberman for quite a long time. This is a very responsible and wise politician, with great managerial experience. Avigdor Lieberman is known for his quite pragmatic views, as well as the absolute intolerance to any manifestations of terrorism. Avigdor Lieberman is one of the few people who understands all the perspectives of cooperation with our country, is able to distinguish propaganda from reality and do not go to extremes. He is also known for his positive attitude to Ukraine. I am confident that the entry of his party into the ruling coalition will strengthen the development of relations between Ukraine and Israel. Moreover, now Avigdor Lieberman will head one of the main Israeli ministries - the Ministry of Defence (the budget of Ministry of Defence of Israel is 14-15 billion US dollars for 2016, 17% of the total budget).

I congratulate Nadiya Savchenko with her return back home! For the last two years Ukraine believed and prayed for the return of the hero!

Despite all we knew, that Ukraine will see real patriot Nadiya Savchenko back home and alive.

At 14:50 Presidents jet with Nadiya Savchenko on board have landed in Kiev airport “Borispil”. As it was predicted, Ukrainian was exchanged for two Russian GRU members captured by our forces in ATO zone. In my opinion Nadiyas return to Ukraine is a historic moment: because of coordinated actions of diplomats, politicians, lawyers and support of simple Ukrainians and people from all over the world, Ukrainian pilot returned home. 708 days of imprisonment are finally over.

Today Nadiya Savchenko is the symbol of unbreakable will of Ukrainian nation, real warrior, who is ready to give her life for Motherland and her nations freedom. Bravery of this woman will be remembered by generations of Ukrainians, her example made others believe, that dignity and honor are not empty words, but real power.

Of course, it would be a mistake to think, that Nadiya Savchenko return will solve all current issues, but what I know for sure, that such little steps lead to a great victory. I thank all Ukrainians who helped and believed in our pilots return home. And once again congratulate Nadiya Savchenko with her return home!

Yesterday, with the support of Honorary Consulate of the State of Israel in Western Ukraine, in Lviv started the VIII International Festival of Jewish music “LvivKlezFest 2016”: during two weeks, the citizens and guests of the city will be able to become familiar with the Jewish culture and traditional arts.

This year's festival will be held under a symbolic slogan: “760 years of unique stories of Lviv: Jewish music returns!” Lviv is a unique city where representatives of different cultures and different nationalities peacefully coexisted for centuries. This city has always been tolerant to all. Thus today’s Lviv is a city that has combined rich symbiosis of traditions of peoples living there. History of Jews has a special place in the life of Lviv, they are inseparable. This is not just another page, this is the true face of the modern city, which has arisen due to close relations between Jews, Ukrainian, Polish and all those who inhabit Lviv.

This year musicians, actors, artists, singers and bands from Ukraine, Israel, Poland, the USA, Germany will come to honor the ancient city. Each of them will tell their own story similar to those, thanks to which Lviv have developed. The festival program is very diverse, and includes interesting exhibitions and theatre performances, master classes of Jewish and modern Israeli dances, bard song chamber and street concerts under an open sky. You can learn about the history of the Jewish quarter of Lviv during media tours with professional guides speaking Ukrainian and English. Klezmer music is a traditional music of Eastern European Jews. This is dance music, music of joy, happiness, to which Jewish, Ukrainian, Gypsy, Moldovan and Romanian weddings have been celebrated.

The festival will continue until June, 5. On the final day of the festival the audience is welcomed to a grand celebration outdoors at Rynok Square: from 2 p. m. to 10 p. m. klezmer-bands from different countries of the world will play at joint gala concert. Among the stars of the festival there are world-famous Daniel Kahn, Alan Bern, Cristian David and Frank London, Grammy Award winner. More details of the festival program you can find here

I invite everyone, who wishes to become familiar with the tradition of Jewish music during May, 23 - June, 5, to visit “LvivKlezFest-2016”! Welcome!

Israel has long been a territory where endless wars were fought - if not religious, then trade, if not for territory, then for spheres of influence.

Many of the great civilizations of the world have left their mark on history of these unique lands. Today you can go to Israel for up-to-the-minute technology and to find the ancient treasures: and to date archaeologists find in Israel more and more artifacts that testify to the ancient heritage.

So recently in the ancient port of Caesarea a group of divers have found a real treasure - the ancient treasure has lain at the bottom for more than 1600 years. Among the findings there are beautiful bronze lamps, human- height statues, figures of animals and thousands of ancient coins. All this wealth is preserved perfectly, because it has lain beneath the sand for a long time. In addition to cultural objects and art, archaeologists have discovered the iron and wooden anchors, fragments of vessels and of ship that had lain under water for 16 centuries. According to Israeli scientists, this is the largest discovery in underwater archeology in the last 30 years.

In my view, Israel and Ukraine are similar even in this: both countries have ancient roots and a rich historical tradition. But there is also a very noticeable difference. Last week, during repair work near the Church of the Tithes in Kyiv part of the palace of Prince Vladimir’s period was found. If Israel gathers all the finding, number them and then will show to their descendants for centuries, what awaits Ukrainian artifacts is unknown. Maybe on the ground of an ancient palace a house will be built? Or another store?

Israel Sports: last week Jerusalem Open 2016 bodybuilding and fitness-bikini contest took place in Jerusalem.

It would be a crime to leave such beauty unattended, especially due to the fact that Ukrainian sportsmen took part in the contest.

More than hundred athletes demonstrated their achievements. Ofer Ran from Nes Ziona became the absolute winner in the bodybuilding category, in the category of beach bodybuilding Saher Kahlon of Migdal Shаms (Golan), and in the category of wellness bikini Mary Pomerantz of Netanya.

And just the other day in Lviv, an open Cup of Ukraine on bodybuilding, fitness and bodyfitness was held. Yuri Kovalchuk from Khmelnitsky became the absolute champion was, and the absolute winner of the category "fitness model" - Natalya Kaspersky from Kiev. The winners of the competition in June will go to the World Championships in Verona, Italy.

I invite you, my friends, to compare both teams and decide who is the best.

Today Ukraine is celebrating the Day of Europe.

On Europe Day we celebrate common values, common history of Ukraine as a European state. Ukraine is a part of the big European family since antiquity, our history, culture and traditions are inextricably linked. Today, Ukraine is again on the path of European integration and loudly declares it to the world.

We live during unique times, when just before our eyes history is made, vector of development of generations is changed and one era changes another. Unfortunately, in Ukraine, these changes were not easy: Ukrainians, like many times in its history, gave their own blood to defend the right to live in a free and democratic society. But we made our choice and now intend to independently decide our own fate.

Europe Day is of special importance for Ukrainians. Two of the revolutions that occurred in the country in recent years have clearly shown that the European choice is final and unchangeable for Ukraine. Ukrainians - strong, wise and beautiful nation. We can not only enrich Europe with our talents, hard work, unique history and culture. Today, Ukrainians, like many centuries ago, guard the eastern frontiers of Europe, to save the common European house.

Our great reformers made a great contribution in the creation of modern Europe - the rulers Vladimir and Yaroslav, Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytsky, Ivan Mazepa and Pylyp Orlik. They laid the foundations for a future democratic Europe, open to all European nations without exception. Europe Day - a reminder of the common history of Ukraine and Europe. Today, Ukrainians are European nation, which has the same values ​​with the rest of the nations of Europe and the state of Ukraine is on its way to EU. Sure, we still have a long way and a lot of work to do, but I believe that we can handle it!

I congratulate Ukrainians on this holiday and wish you peace and good!

Nowadays, when Ukraine for two years participate in military actions in Donbass, army faces new issues and tasks.

Of course, the first and most important condition for a successful military operation is arming and soldiers experience. But no less important is the level of military medical services, on which the life of men often depend.

Israel has extensive experience in military medicine and continues to evolve, as required by the reality. Today I want to tell you about how military medicine in Israel works. I believe that this experience will be useful for Ukraine.

Much attention is paid by Israeli military medics to emergency medicine and medical assistance to wounded soldiers. Doctors have the term "golden hour", when there is a chance to save the soldier, in a timely manner by providing him medical care. Full and timely medical care saves the lives of more than 90% of the wounded. So Israeli doctors were able to reduce this hour to 43 minutes. Naturally, this has led to a rapid reduction of combat losses: according to statistics, the loss amounted to no more than 6% in August last year.

This high figure is achieved through the special system of military medicine: in the Israeli army doctor is a participant of all offensive operations, medic is situated directly next to the soldiers during the military operations. Yes, medics go into battle with the soldiers. In armies of most countries first aid is provided to soldiers by paramedics and nurses, and large-scale medical assistance is provided after the evacuation. Israel decided that it would be rational to help soldiers immediately and on the spot. Therefore, Israeli wounded soldiers received medical treatment in about two minutes after the injury.

Israeli army provides the most advanced medical equipment and medicines. For example, Israeli medics directly on the battlefield inject plasma powder in case of significant blood loss, without waiting for donor transfusions. Or can use "zipper" for open wounds. Also on their arms are automatic syringes of morphine, portable ultrasound scanners for the detection of bleeding, carbon dioxide detectors to check the efficiency of artificial respiration.

Clearly, all these methods are not final treatments. But they help in an emergency to save life of a soldier and that is the most important.

In addition, it is important to evacuate wounded soldier from the battlefield: in Israeli army evacuation engaged in special vehicles – tank-bulances and helicopters, and soon even by drones. One example: in 2006 during the war in Lebanon, Israeli helicopters evacuated 360 wounded from the battlefield. Flight to the hospital lasted about 3.5 hours. Since all of these machines have been equipped with medical equipment, the medics assistance was provided to injured on board. As a result of this operation not a single Israeli soldier was lost.

It is necessary to pay special attention and filling of first aid kits of Israeli soldier. Today, tourniquet is traditional remedy bleeding. But Israel rejected it and uses the so-called "turnstile": it is a nylon sleeve with a special pen, inside it is a tourniquet. This design allows the soldier to independently and quickly put a bandage even with one hand. Using of this device is taught at the very beginning of the service. In addition, Israeli soldiers use modern hemostatic agents that are imbued with blood clotting drugs.

And Israeli soldiers used a new means "aktik": magic candy is a hundred times stronger analgesic effect than morphine and is the strongest pain disappears for more than an hour. This can significantly ease the suffering of wounded and reduce losses from the painful shocks.

All this know-how arose not only from the need to maintain permanent military actions, but also because Israel values life of every soldier. And now, just think of the first aid kit of Ukrainian ATO fighter.

Good afternoon, friends!

Just a few weeks ago, together with the Ambassador of the State of Israel Eliav Belotserkovsky I visited Ivano-Frankivsk and Chernivtsi regions. A particular point of this working visit, which was extensively discussed at meetings with the leaders of both regions, was the development of tourism in Western region of Ukraine. Today, this initiative has a real continuation: in cooperation with the Embassy of the State of Israel, we organized a promotional tour for the representatives of travel agencies and mass media of Israel in Western Ukraine. From 15 till 18 May, a group of Israelis visited Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk and Chernivtsi regions, where they got acquainted with the popular tourist destinations, culture of the region, assessed the tourism potential of the region and were able to discuss the prospects of bilateral cooperation with regional administrations. The guests from Israel stayed in the best hotels and medical complexes, met with the leading tour operators of Western Ukraine.

Historically, Western Ukraine is a very promising region for the development of tourism between our countries: Jews have been living on these lands for centuries, so Jewish traditions and culture have been well kept here. Tens of thousands of families from this region have relatives in Israel, maintained relations with them and, of course, would be happy to have the opportunity to meet with them regularly. In addition, Chernivtsi, Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk are pearls of Ukrainian culture, architecture and art. As the Israeli guests say, they have been pleasantly surprised by the beauty of these places, the openness and kindness of residents of Western Ukraine and believe that this destination will be very interesting for travellers from Israel. Specific tourist destination can become Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains, which until now have not lost their original beauty and are the centre of resort rest in the region.

For example, it is 40 degrees’ heat in Israel at the moment, when in Western Ukraine it is +12C, trees are blooming and its cool. Despite that, new Ukrainian parliament promises to repair roads on main tourist and trade routes of the region, that will improve connection between regions.

As Honorary Consul of the State of Israel in Western Ukraine region I, from my side, do my best, to promote the image of Ukraine. I hope, this initiative will help to create fruitful relations with our Israeli partners, because advantages of such projects are obvious for both Israelis and Ukrainians.

Friends, today I would like to tell you about one more person, who has linked Ukraine and Israel forever: on May, 16 the 100th anniversary of the birth of Ephraim Katzir, the 4th President of Israel, a native of Kyiv, was marked.

Ephraim Katzir - Efraim Katchalski, a prominent biophysicist, Ph.D., the winner of the Israel Prize in life sciences, one of the founders of the Weizmann Institute, a member of the Royal Society of London, the winner of the Japan Prize, the head of the scientific service of the IDF, the promoter and organizer of the departments of Jewish history and theology at the universities of the world.

Efraim Katchalski was born in 1916 in Kiev, in 1925 the family moved to Palestine. Efraim’s grandfather was a rabbi, so the family honored and knew the Jewish traditions well. Five years after the arrival of the Bolsheviks in Kiev, the Katchalski family moved to Palestine, Efraim was only nine at that time. After moving, Efraim finished school, in 1932 he became a student of the University of Jerusalem, and in 1941 he received a doctorate in biophysics.

Generally Katchalski was not going to be involved in politics: he was successful in scientific field, his work on the study of proteins and amino acids were recognized worldwide, his innovative methods got broad application. In 1950, he was awarded the Weizmann Prize, nine years later he was awarded the Prize of Israel, two years later he got the Rothschild Prize. After that Katchalski became a member of the National Academy of Sciences of Israel, and one of the first Israelis, who was invited to the American Academy of Sciences.

In 1973, Katchalski was invited to run for president of Israel by another famous native of Kyiv - Golda Meir herself, who was the prime minister at that time. To elect scientists for the presidency is the tradition of Israel. According to Israelis, the president must be a person who is, above all, a moral authority for society. Efraim Katchalski was such an authority. Under the law Katchalski changed his surname to Katzir, which means "harvest". On 24 May 1973 he assumed the presidency.

During the period of his presidency, he experienced the Yom Kippur War in 1973 and the historic visit of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat - the first official visit of the head of the Arab countries to Israel. Katzir’s popularity was undeniable: he could easily run for another term. However, Dr. Katzir refused and chose to continue his scientific work.

After the presidential cadence Ephraim Katzir was able to visit his first native land in Kyiv, where he participated in an international conference. Our countryman died at the advanced age in 2009 at his home in Rehovot. By the way, in his memoirs, written a year before his death, he wrote about Kyiv.

Our history has been rewritten for so long that we have forgotten who we are and where we are from, who our true friends are and who they are not. Today any of you can make your own conclusions based on facts, not myths.

72 years ago one of the most horrific crimes in the history of Soviet country was committed: on the night of 18th May 1944 totalitarian government got rid of the whole nation.

Heartbeat of Crimean Tatars that night turned into the sound of freight train wheels, taking the nation from its homeland, condemning to death and oblivion. It took only three days to take around 200 thousand people thousands kilometers away. Half of them died during this trip. And those little, who managed to survive were scattered to different regions of Middle Asia.

Just in three days Stalin regime ordered to the whole nation to stop its existence, forget its roots and give-up their future. Only by the end of the 20th century, after country of executioners broke up, Crimean Tatars were able to return to their homes, to start all over again.

Today, as 70 years ago, resurgent tyrant wants to destroy the rights of the Crimean Tatar people to their own identity, trying once again to deceive the whole world and destroy the long-suffering people. In Crimea it is again forbidden to be Tatar national, and any sign of national identity is persecuted. Occupation government banned any Tatar events devoted to deportation and genocide, but they cannot be forbidden to just pray for the fallen.

Today, I call on to honor the memory of all who died during the tragic events. Nothing can justify or explain the destruction of half the nation. But it is not a lesser evil to forget about the crime committed back in '72.

Good afternoon, friends!

Last week was marked by a large number of different activities and I almost did not comment on the events taking place in Ukraine. But there are things to talk about.
I often write about Israel - its achievements, progress and technology to illustrate by its example a possible path of development for Ukraine. But this does not mean that Ukraine has nothing to boast of. While statesmen are busy with their usual things - assignments, portfolios and posts - ordinary Ukrainians continue their work to vindicate the honor of the country, reaching new heights.

In my digest of the events of the last week there are following "nominees":
1. Number one is, of course, Jamala and her victory at the Eurovision Song Contest. I heartily congratulate everybody on the brilliant victory of the Ukrainian singer and thank Israel for 12 points in the final of the contest! If Ukraine cannot get into Europe, then next year Europe will come to Ukraine. Bravo, Jamala!

2. If someone does not know, the world’s largest cargo plane Mriya was invented and produced in Ukraine. The airplane has beaten 240 world records. This giant took a unique flight to Australia last week. Tens of thousands of people came to see landing of the titan.

3. Our famous champions - Oleg Verniaiev and Igor Radivilov, won gold and silver at FIG Challenge Cup. Ukrainians were best at five of six finals.
4. Ukrainian synchronized swimming team became the best in Europe, having won gold medals at European Aquatics Championship in London. At the same competition Yulia Prokopchuk won gold in 10m Platform diving, and then one more - in synchronized diving with Maksim Dolgov.

5. Yulia Bilyakova who is only nine years old, won gold at the World Karate Cup. She won 500 athletes from 13 countries.
6. Saber fencer Olga Harlan won acting Olympic champion at the World Cup.
7. The Ukrainian jumping team (overcoming obstacles on horses) became the leader of the Nations Cup, beating teams from 11 countries. Now we are waiting for the performance of our national team at the Olympic Games in Rio.

8. If you have not heard yet, the Ukrainian kulibins are going to launch on the Mars rover: Ukrainian team is taking part in the vote for the best project of NASA. The device will operate on fuel from dry ice. Now the development of the Ukrainians has reached the final, where it is fighting with two other projects. You can vote for the Ukrainians on the link.

9. At this week we were pleased with the modern forms of dance: Ukrainian Oleg Kuznetsov became the best at the Unbreakable Bboy Championship defeating the rival with the score - 3: 0. A day later, the Ukrainian team won at the Battle Europa 2016 international tournament, beating 30 teams from around the world.

Now more than ever we need to win, so I thank all the singers, athletes, engineers, and all those who with their work prove that nothing is impossible. Ukrainians, we have much to be proud of, and do not believe those who say that "everything is lost." I believe that everything is just in our hands: each of you can become a champion in your work and achieve any heights. The main thing is to believe in yourselves, in your own strength.

Yesterday, on May 15, 2016 under the patronage of Honorary Consulate of the State of Israel Day of Jewish Culture was held in Kyiv.

First of all, I thank all those who have helped to organize this event and took part in it. It was very nice to see a large number of guests who visited our holiday - both Jews and Ukrainians. Ukrainian diplomats and politicians, deputies of the Verkhovna Rada, representatives of Jewish organizations and funds, journalists of Ukraine and Israel – many people have come with their families.

The Jewish people is rich, above all, in its traditions and culture: for centuries, a unique nation that did not have its own state, has managed to preserve its own identity. Just because they have treasured a huge cultural heritage and have been united, the Jewish state exists now. Histories of our people are really similar: throughout its history Israel defended its independence, now the price of independence is understood by Ukrainians.

Yesterday, Ukraine marked Day of the Victims of Political Repressions: the totalitarian communist regime spared no Jews or Ukrainians, and we must always remember this. I hope that such events will never be repeated. Recently Israel commemorated those who had been killed in all wars and acts of terrorism. In Israel nobody is forgotten, the name of every victim and every soldier is immortalized and Ukraine could learn this from Israelis.

It is very symbolic that we were visited by Alla Gerber on that day. Alla Gerber is a living witness of how a totalitarian system has tried to destroy any manifestations of self-identity in the bud: it was impossible to be either a Jew or a Ukrainian or a man - nobody. In her speech, she spoke with pain about the fate of Soviet Jews, about her family's fate and her personal. Her father was repressed on a false denunciation in 1949, he returned only in seven years. Alla Gerber knows what the censorship, the ban on the publication, the everyday and state anti-Semitism is. "Life was horrible around us, and our life was wonderful, because we believed in better and kept together," said Alla Gerber of the times she had experienced. "The most terrible thing is a feeling of fear. You can not escape, otherwise everything is in vain," aren’t these words of Alla Gerber about our present days? Today, the story of her life can become a role model: young generations not only of Jews, but also of Ukrainians need to know their history, whatever it may be, not to repeat the mistakes of the past.

The same words were repeated by Albert Feldman. On Day of Jewish Culture, he presented paintings of the Jewish images series. These are the people who have already left, an entire civilization, which has disappeared with the disappearance of the state.

I always say that the fate of Ukrainian and Jewish people are very similar: Ukrainians as well as Jews, for many centuries, did not have their own state in fact, though they lived in the same country. Jews living in different countries passed their traditions unchanged during the centuries, but Ukrainians rewrote their history, destiny, past and future over the past couple of hundred years. Today, thanks to such meetings and communication of different generations, we are proud to transfer our knowledge of the past to our children. In my opinion, it is important not to interrupt this link between generations.

In this sense, yesterday event Children for peace in the whole world looks symbolical: Ukrainian children participants of the event and honorable guests created a symbolical map of Israel from paper pigeons that were covered with the words of peace for the children from other countries. Children of more than 20 countries took part in this event.

I would like one more time express my gratitude to everyone, who attended the Day of Jewish culture, and hope that every guest could find something for themselves from event and communication.

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen!

This year marks 25 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Israel. Israel was one of the first to recognize the independence of Ukraine and strongly supports Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian government for a quarter of a century.

Today in honor of this significant date Alley of Israel was planted at the Mariinsky Park of the capital. The event was attended by Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko, the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Ukraine Eliav Belotserkovsky, embassy staff, representatives of the Ukrainian mass media, as well as a group of Israeli scouts who visited Kyiv within the framework of an exchange between the scout organizations. In addition, the citizens of Kyiv received a gift from the Embassy of the State of Israel to Ukraine: now at the alley of the park points of free Wi-Fi are installed.


A tree is a symbol of life. Development of Israel began with the planting of trees in the arid desert. Thanks to the work and efforts of several generations Israel looks like a flowering oasis today. For Israelis to make their share of work in the Ukrainian land for its welfare and prosperity is a very symbolic gesture. Israel is like no others today understands the situation, which Ukrainian people experience now, because it has gone through the same.


It the tradition of Jewish people to love their native land and try to make it beautiful and blooming. I am glad that I have taken part in this event and helped to make the capital of Ukraine even more beautiful and blooming.

On the third Sunday of May in Ukraine the victims of political repressions, the victims of Soviet terror against its own citizens are commemorated.

Those, the communist regime was afraid of, were destroyed, condemned to death. Today in the memorial complex in Bykivnia commemorations will be held and attended by the leaders of the country.

More than 70 years ago in the forest near Kyiv, Soviet executioners buried more than 100 thousand people during four years... There were brought the bodies of those for whom there was no place left within the city limits. The scale of this tragedy shocks by its scope, cynicism and inhumanity. At night trucks, packed with human bodies, shuttled between the prison and cemetery; every night freight tram made two or three separate raids on the same route. The repressive machine worked smoothly, bloody and merciless. Bykivnia became a tomb for the best representatives of Ukrainian people: here lie the poets, writers, artists and actors, the military, scientists –“blossom” of the Ukrainian culture and science. The Soviet government was always afraid of truth and freedom, so it was simply destroying any grains of dissent. Millions of Ukrainians became the victims of this massacre, war with its own people.

When we can speak freely about it today, it should not be taken for granted. I want new generations of free Ukraine remember what price our people had to pay for the right to think and live according to their own choice. The understanding of what the long-suffering Ukrainian people have gone through provides the awareness of the importance and inviolability of human values, their place in the life of independent Ukraine.

In Ioan Pavel II book “Memory and Identity” we can find following words: “Nations, as certain individuals, are gifted with historic memory… People write history of the society they belong to… This history of nations, objectified and fixed in writing are the key element of culture – element, that is defining for the identification of nation in the timeline”.

Bykovnya is important in this search for identification. Tragedy, that happened here is in one line with such crimes as Baba Yar, Holodomor, Auschwitz. Almost till the end of 20th century communist regime was hiding the true goal of buries in Bykovnia and the real scale of tragedy. Today Ukraine is officially on its way of decommunization by disclosing horrible historical truth, and many are very hard to believe in it. That’s why the more we know about us, the faster we will understand our place in history itself.

Today there will be a light sketch of how Israelis make money from waste with the help of physical laws.

Inventive people of Israel opened a unique waste recycling factory that not only recycles waste, but is completely autonomous and brings great income through original technological techniques.

At this factory the method of hydroseparation is used: that is, instead of messing about waste and trying to sort it, waste is run through the water. That is all. And then the laws of physics begin to make a profit. In the water under its own weight metals go to the bottom, organic waste gathers in the middle, plastic floats to the surface.

Of course, Israelis would not be Israelis if they did not use modern technologies in the process. Plastic is blown off by airflow, metal is collected with the help of a magnet. Further the organic waste begins to bring income: it is sent to the bioreactor tanks, where it is converted into methane, which then becomes a power, on which the factory itself operates. Plastic undergoes recycling, as well as metal does, nothing is burnt here, so there is no harm for the environment. A nice bonus of this small factory is the lack of the usual "flavors" of waste recycling factory. Water simply neutralizes all odors.

I do not know why, but Israeli engineers realized before the others did that waste can be processed cost-effectively, without causing harm to the environment, and Israeli businessmen decided that this clean (!) technology can make good money. Maybe because Israelis are extremely limited in natural resources and territory, they appreciate the little that they have. Perhaps this is the result of centuries-old waiting for their own state, but the fact remains that in Israel money is made from everything, without destroying everything around, but preserving and enhancing. Precisely with this attitude toward themselves and the country, and not with slogans, promises and proclamations the real state begins.

One of the features of the Israeli army is that soldier’s interests are put first.

The IDF (Tzahal) believes that if a soldier is provided, satisfied with the conditions of accommodation, service and relaxation, feels support and understanding from colleagues and management, the army only benefits. Therefore, great importance is attached not only to the household things, but also to psychological well-being of soldiers.

In one of my posts I have mentioned that before the secret operation Jonathan soldiers were let go home to spend the evening with family. After this the operation was not so secret as before. But the soldiers at full force came to perform, perhaps, the last task in their life, nobody refused. The commander of any unit knows everything about his soldier. Absolutely everything: where he studied, where he lives, the family he is from and what his hobbies are. And it is not just the general awareness, but sincere attention.

Especially different attitude is paid to so-called lone soldiers: they are not orphans, they are soldiers who serve away from their relatives or whose relatives can not help them. Realizing how important it is for a soldier to feel the support of the family, the IDF tries to fill the life of a lone soldier with habitual "home" traditions. 5 thousand lone soldiers serve a permanent service in the Israeli army, about 3 thousand of them are immigrants. Many of them are the children of those people who have not simply "arrived" to Israel yet. Such a lone soldier has nowhere to go for a weekend or holidays, he has to do all the household chores by himself. In Israel this "problem" is solved this way: people across the country offer lone soldiers communication when a soldier can come to visit, spend holidays together, help to find a cheaper accommodation, buy furniture, appliances... Such a kind of adoption is. Special clubs for socializing of lone soldiers are being opened. These clubs cooperate with different youth organizations.

And also the IDF has one priceless tradition: once during the military service the army pays for a lone soldier’s travel to relatives abroad. Sometimes it happens that a soldier is not allowed to leave Israel, then IDF brings his parents. I invite you to watch how recently such a meeting took place on the base of the Israeli Air Force. It was attended by soldiers, immigrants from the CIS. Two Antons, who had not seen their relatives for several years, met with their parents. I will not comment, everything is clear from the video. I just want to say that I hope that the Ukrainian army is able to achieve such a relationship with a soldier, as Israelis do.

Сегодня Израиль отмечает День независимости.

От имени всего украинского народа, лично от себя хочу поздравить народ Израиля с этим праздником!

Возникновение еврейского государства стало естественным продолжением исторической борьбы за независимость, тысячелетняя борьба за свободу привела к созданию сильной и независимой державы. Более полувека назад евреи всего мира вновь обрели свой дом, который чтит и бережно хранит многовековое культурное наследие и религиозные традиции еврейского народа. Сегодняшний Израиль является надежным оплотом демократии на Ближнем Востоке и примером для многих.

Израиль является надежным другом и важным партнером для Украины. Основой для развития двусторонних отношений между нашими государствами служат многовековые исторические связи между украинцами и израильтянами. На протяжении столетий наши народы жили вместе, ведь для многих израильтян Украина была первой исторической родиной. В то же время сегодня в Израиле проживает более полумиллиона выходцев из Украины; многие из них внесли свою лепту в развитие современного Израиля, поэтому добрые отношения израильтян и украинцев предопределены исторически. Сейчас, когда Украина стала независимой державой, эти отношения перешли на новый уровень. Наша задача – способствовать их развитию и процветанию.

Наши народы связывает не только общая территория и традиции, но и общие цели: свобода и мир. Сегодня и израильские, и украинские солдаты с оружием в руках отстаивают право собственной страны на существование, поэтому наши народы так хорошо понимают друг друга. Как Украина, так и Израиль, платит высокую цену за свою независимость.

Я благодарен израильтянам, которые в трудный для Украины момент протянули руку помощи украинцам: в Израиле прошли лечение и реабилитацию десятки украинских солдат, израильтяне отправляли гуманитарные грузы для переселенцев, делятся неоценимым опытом с украинскими психологами, медиками и волонтерами.

Эти факты говорят об огромном потенциале торгово-экономических, культурно-гуманитарных, научных, дипломатических связей между нашими странами. Я, как Почетный консул Государства Израиль и дальше буду прилагать усилия, чтобы укреплять всесторонние отношения между Украиной и Израилем.

Я поздравляю израильтян с Днем независимости и желаю жителям Израиля добра, мира и процветания!

There is an unshakable tradition for more than half a century in Israel: every year on the eve of Independence Day, Israelis commemorate all those who gave their lives for freedom of their people and country.

On this day - Memorial Day – people pay tribute to the soldiers, defenders, civilians, who were killed by the enemy.

In Israel, there are no unknown soldiers: 23 447 people gave their lives for Israel. On the eve at 8 o’clock in the evening a siren is heard everywhere in the country, during which any movement stops, traffic stops, all Israel stands still with bowed head. After that the names of all the fallen are listed, without exception - 23 447 people. The flag of Israel and flowers are put on each grave. Memorial events will be held across the country on this day. The ceremony ends with the volley in memory of the victims. This way Israel commemorates its defenders.

Half a century ago, Israelis decided that it is not enough simply to recall the total number of the soldiers who have fallen during wars and conflicts; there is a need for a special day to pay tribute to its soldiers. Therefore, today the President, Prime Minister, Parliament, all military and local officials, all citizens bow their heads and commemorate the heroes. Fallen soldiers in Israel are referred as people, without whom there would be no state.

Anyone can find details about the victim: a name, surname, battle tag are all stored in open access on the state portal. Everything is clear and transparent.

In recent time during Memorial Day it is used to remember those who has fallen from the hands of terrorists: not only soldiers, but civilian. Unfortunately, such victims are more and more.

Today I want to express my solidarity with the people of Israel: we, Ukrainians – by blood, believes or just living in Ukraine – all understand the pain of a loss. Daily Ukraine loses its best sons in the fight with the cruel enemy, and we in the same way as you do, mourn for them. I know, that these casualties are not in vain while we continue to remember them. I believe, that Israel and Ukraine would be able to defeat all enemies and live under the peaceful sky. Eternal honor to heroes!

Дамы и господа!

15 мая 2016 под патронатом Почетного консульства Государства Израиль состоится День еврейской культуры.

Я приглашаю киевлян и гостей столицы познакомиться с традициями современного Израиля!

В программе мероприятия: встреча с Аллой Гербер, президентом фонда «Холокост», выставка Альберта Фельдмана и арт-перфоманс «Дети за мир во всем мире». Хочу сказать несколько слов о людях, которых вы сможете увидеть.

Алла Гербер – легендарная личность: президент фонда «Холокост», писательница, кинокритик, журналист с 50-тилетним стажем, лауреат премии Федерации еврейских общин и Человек года, член Союза писателей, а также Союза журналистов и кинематографистов, один из лидеров антифашистского движения.

Алла Гербер родилась в Москве в 1932 году. Она испытала на себе действие советской тоталитарной машины: ее отец был репрессирован, цензура не раз запрещала ей говорить, она не понаслышке знакома с понятием «пятая графа». С 1992 года госпожа Гербер принимает активное участие в деятельности Фонда «Холокост».

Что лучше - цензура или вседозволенность, что такое свобода прессы и в чем суть профессии журналиста - на эти вопросы попробует ответить Алла Гербер с высоты своего опыта. На встрече также можно будет познакомиться с ее книгой «Когда-то и сейчас».

Альберт Фельдман - украинский психолог, врач, художник и публицист. В начале военных действий на Донбассе он создал реабилитационный центр изотерапии для воинов АТО, который уже два года помогает им восстанавливать здоровье. На встрече можно будет познакомиться с уникальной художественной выставкой Альберта Фельдмана «Еврейские образы».

Проект «Дети за мир во всем мире» - это послание от детей Украины детям других государств с пожеланиями мира и добра. Во время перфоманса дети создадут карту Израиля с помощью бумажных голубей. На мероприятие приглашены дипломаты и политики, депутаты ВР, представители еврейских общественных организаций и фондов, журналисты из ведущих масс медиа Украины и Израиля.



День еврейской культуры состоится 15 мая с 15.00 до 18 00 по адресу: г. Киев, ул. Урицкого 1а, ресторан «Оазис» (ТЦ «Ультрамарин» 3й, этаж).

Today is Mother's Day – the day of the dearest and closest person for each of us. Mother's Day is an international holiday.

In Ukraine, it is celebrated in May, in Israel – in February, but this holiday is equally important and dear everywhere. The word “mother” sounds with the same warmth and love in all languages of the world.

Mother is the beginning of a new life, the first word; those are happy who are kept by mother's love and prayer.

I want to congratulate all mothers with the warmest words and thank them for given life, infinite patience and care for their families! You are not only our support, you are the ones who brighten our life and give it meaning. I wholeheartedly thank Ukrainian mothers who could raise real defenders. I wish that your children are able to return home soon.

Be healthy and happy, moms! I wish you long life and peaceful sky over your head!