You're reading: Israel concerned about anti-Semitism in Ukraine, says deputy foreign minister

Israel is concerned about signs of anti-Semitism in Ukraine, Deputy Foreign Minister of Israel Zeev Elkin has said.

“I maintain close ties with many residents of Ukraine, so I would not describe the situation as the propagandizing of fascism. But Israel is concerned about manifestations of anti-Semitism in Ukraine, both verbal and physical,” he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Thursday.

Elkin noted that this issue was raised by Ukrainian officials during the talks with him.

“Our Ukrainian counterparts understand the importance of combating all the manifestations of anti-Semitism. Historical experience shows that if you do not produce a tough and fast response to such manifestations, then this will have negative consequences. It is extremely important for Israel. We, as a nation, are concerned about this. Experience shows that in such situations we can hold a productive dialogue with the governments of other countries,” he said.

The diplomat said that he would not give any assessments to the actions of political forces in Ukraine.

Elkin added that the Israeli Embassy in Ukraine is watching the situation with the manifestation of anti-Semitism in the country

“Such things affect the image of Ukraine. Therefore, we need a tough and uncompromising response to any manifestations of anti-Semitism, no matter which political circles it is coming from. Israel and Ukraine agree on this,” he said.