In this exclusive interview, Rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman, Chief Rabbi of Kyiv and Ukraine and Head of the All-Ukrainian Congress of Jewish Religious Communities, shares his perspective on Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine and its broader implications for Europe and the free world.
Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, Rabbi Azman has become a symbol of moral courage, faith, and humanitarian leadership. He remained in Kyiv during the most dangerous days of the invasion and transformed the Brodsky Synagogue into a humanitarian hub. Under his leadership, thousands of civilians were evacuated, and critically needed aid was delivered, including food, medicine, clothing, generators, water purification systems, and other life-saving resources.
Through the humanitarian initiative “Mitzvah for Ukraine” and mobile support centers known as “Mitzvatanks,” Rabbi Azman and his team continue to assist civilians left without electricity, heating, or water. They provide drinking water, mobile charging stations, and rapid-response assistance following missile and drone attacks, offering help regardless of faith, background, or nationality.
In the interview, Rabbi Azman expresses gratitude to the American people, members of Congress, and U.S. leadership for supporting Ukraine throughout nearly four years of full-scale war. He emphasizes that Ukrainians are defending not only their families and homeland, but also the shared values of freedom and democracy that define the free world.
Rabbi Azman describes the severe humanitarian conditions caused by relentless missile and drone strikes on civilian infrastructure. He speaks about people enduring harsh winter conditions without electricity, heating, or water, while remaining resilient and unwilling to surrender.
His testimony also carries a deeply personal dimension. Rabbi Azman’s adopted son, Matityahu (Moti), was killed while defending Ukraine as a soldier of the 46th Brigade. Despite this profound loss, Rabbi Azman continues his mission to save lives, sustain the spirit of the people, and speak truth to the world by exposing Russian propaganda and war crimes.
The interview was recorded as part of the International Conference “Freedom Has a Name, and It’s called Ukraine,” held on February 5, 2026, in Washington, D.C., at the Rayburn House Office Building, part of the U.S. Capitol complex, under the leadership of Pastor Mark Burns, on the platform of ALLATRA International Public Movement.
The conference was attended by representatives of the U.S. Department of State, members of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, military officers, religious leaders, and humanitarian representatives — all those who firmly stand in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, its freedom, and the safe return of Ukrainian children illegally deported by Russia.
Full video of the International Conference “Freedom Has a Name, and It’s called Ukraine”: https://youtu.be/KDifFdUwlxE
Official website of the Spiritual Diplomats initiative:
https://www.spiritualdiplomats.org/
ALLATRA International Public Movement Official Website:
https://allatra.org/
Publication of this material provides an opportunity for open discussion and does not in itself imply institutional endorsement, confirmation, or scientific verification of the views expressed. The material does not constitute an official statement, expert opinion, or professional advice.