The war in Ukraine has led to a humanitarian crisis, with the first refugees crossing the border into Moldova seeking safety and shelter. These refugees arrived at the center of the Jewish community in the capital, Kishinev, led by the state’s chief rabbi, Rabbi Yosef-Yitzhak Abelsky. The Chabad emissaries in Moldova, including Rabbi Mandy Axelrod, Rabbi Mendy Gotzel, and Rabbi Shmuel Zalmanov, have been working tirelessly to prepare for the influx of refugees.
Rabbi Axelrod mentioned that people from Ukraine are reaching out, expressing their desire to come to Moldova for safety. The timing is complex, especially with the approaching Sabbath, but preparations are in full swing. Rabbi Zalmanov noted that hundreds more Jews, including many Israelis, are expected to arrive in the coming days. The Chabad emissaries are assisting with accommodation and providing essential supplies to those in need.
Despite the challenges and fears of a potential Russian invasion in Moldova, the Chabad emissaries remain steadfast in their mission to help those in need. Rabbi Goetzl expressed concerns about the safety of Moldova but emphasized the importance of staying hopeful and continuing to provide support to the refugees.
In Ukraine, the leaders and rabbis of the Federation of Jewish Communities have made the decision to stay with the local population during this difficult time. The focus is on providing assistance to those in need, including distributing essential supplies to Holocaust survivors, the elderly, and the disabled. The Federation is also working to secure Jewish synagogues and institutions to prevent looting and harassment by antisemites.
The rabbis and leaders of the Jewish communities in Ukraine are calling on Jews worldwide to pray, give charity, and perform good deeds during this challenging time. They see the conflict between Russia and Ukraine as a sign of redemption and are urging the global Jewish community to come together to support those affected by the war.
In conclusion, the situation in Ukraine and Moldova is dire, but the Jewish communities are coming together to provide support and assistance to those in need. The Chabad emissaries in Moldova and the leaders of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Ukraine are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of refugees and local populations. It is a time for unity, prayer, and action to help those affected by the ongoing conflict.