Tensions between Ukraine and Israel have escalated as the Ukrainian envoy to Israel, Ambassador Evgeny Kornichuk, has reaffirmed Ukraine’s potential decision to suspend visa-free travel agreements with Israel.
This move follows ambiguous threats made by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, who alluded to the mistreatment of Ukrainian nationals abroad in a recent address. Though not explicitly named, the remarks were understood to be directed toward Israel.
Potential Suspension of Visa-Free Travel
The Ukrainian government will not tolerate the humiliation of its citizens upon entering Israel, and we will suspend our bilateral visa waiver agreements in accordance with Article 7 of the intergovernmental agreement, Ambassador Kornichuk clarified in a statement.
The suspension of visa-free travel could have a notable impact on Breslover Hasidim pilgrims who travel to the Ukrainian town of Uman to celebrate the Jewish New Year and visit the tomb of Reb Nachman of Bratslav, the movement’s founder.
Kornichuk expressed frustration over hosting tens of thousands of Israelis in Uman, dealing with security risks and logistical challenges, while alleging mistreatment of Ukrainian citizens entering Israel under the existing treaty.
The ambassador urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to personally address the issue to ensure a smooth travel experience for Israeli citizens to Ukraine.
Tensions are escalating between Ukraine and Israel as a potential suspension of visa-free travel hangs in the balance. Under the existing agreement, Ukrainian tourists can enjoy stays of up to three months in Israel without the complexities of a traditional visa process.
However, recent developments involving allegations of mistreatment and growing diplomatic strains threaten to undermine this arrangement.
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Diplomatic Tensions and the Fate of Visa-Free Travel
Ambassador Evgeny Kornichuk, Ukraine’s envoy to Israel, has sounded the alarm on potential consequences, including the suspension of visa-free travel. This comes in response to what Ukraine perceives as mistreatment of its citizens upon entering Israel.
Citing Article 7 of the intergovernmental agreement, Kornichuk emphasized that his government will not tolerate the humiliation of its citizens and is prepared to take measures to address the issue.
Among those potentially affected by such a suspension are the Breslover Hasidim pilgrims, who journey to the Ukrainian town of Uman annually to celebrate the Jewish New Year and pay their respects at the tomb of Reb Nachman of Bratslav, the founder of their movement.
Kornichuk’s concerns stem from allegations that around 10% of Ukrainian visitors end up being deported from Israel without clear explanations.
While Ukraine underscores these concerns, Israeli authorities staunchly deny the allegations of mistreatment. In response, Interior and Health Minister Moshe Arbel affirmed Israel’s welcoming stance toward tourists from Ukraine and other nations.
Arbel clarified that if suspicions arise about tourists potentially misusing their visas for unauthorized work or residence, Israeli authorities operate within the confines of their legal jurisdiction.
Beyond the visa dispute, tensions have recently strained the bilateral relations between Ukraine and Israel.
Ukraine’s public dissatisfaction with Israel’s cessation of free healthcare for refugees within its borders is among the sources of contention. Reports suggest that Ukraine views Israel’s stance as “pro-Russian” and perceives a lack of significant support from the country.
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